Bangladesh has reported its first death from the Nipah virus in 2026, the World Health Organization (WHO) confirmed, reported 24NewsHD TV channel on Sunday.
The victim was a woman in northern Bangladesh, aged between 40 and 50, who fell ill on January 21.
She developed a high fever, headache, hypersalivation, disorientation, and convulsions. Despite medical care, she died a week later. Laboratory tests confirmed the presence of the Nipah virus the day after her death.
Authorities said the woman had no recent travel history. However, she had consumed raw date palm sap, a common source of the virus. All 35 people who had close contact with her are under medical monitoring. So far, none have tested positive, and no additional cases have been reported.
Nipah virus is mainly transmitted through products contaminated by infected bats, including fruits and sap. While it can be deadly in up to 75% of cases, it spreads slowly from person to person.
This case in Bangladesh comes amid reports of two Nipah infections in India. The outbreak in West Bengal has prompted countries across Asia, including Pakistan, Thailand, Malaysia, and Indonesia, to step up airport screenings and preventive measures.
WHO has stated that the risk of international spread remains low. Based on the current information, it has not recommended any travel or trade restrictions.
In 2025, Bangladesh reported four laboratory-confirmed deaths due to the Nipah virus. Currently, no vaccines or specific medicines are available for treating the infection.