The World Health Organization (WHO) has assessed the Nipah virus risk in India as low, with over 190 people exposed showing no infections. Several Asian countries, including Thailand, have increased airport screening, despite the disease's high fatality rate and lack of specific treatment.
On 30 Jan 2026 GMT+7, the WHO evaluated the risk of a Nipah virus outbreak in India as low. After testing more than 190 contacts of infected individuals, no positive cases or symptoms were found. Meanwhile, many Asian countries have tightened airport screenings to prevent cross-border spread.
According to reports, WHO's Health Emergency Programme officials stated that more than 190 close contacts of the two Nipah virus cases in India have shown no signs of infection or illness. This leads to the assessment that the risk of spread nationally, regionally, and globally remains "low."
The WHO reported that both infected patients are currently hospitalized and alive, with one showing signs of improvement. Experts are awaiting viral genome sequencing data from India to check for mutations but emphasized that there is currently no cause for concern.
Following confirmation of cases in India, several Asian regions—including Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, and Vietnam—have strengthened airport screening to prevent importation. The source of the latest infections remains unclear, with hypotheses including consumption of fresh palm sap or exposure in healthcare settings; investigations are ongoing.
Source: CNA