Travel enthusiasts planning trips to South Asia now face a new health alert.
UK health officials are warning that the deadly Nipah virus, recently resurfacing in India, could pose serious risks.
Though no cases have yet appeared in the UK, experts are urging travelers to stay vigilant—especially when it comes to handling food and avoiding potential exposure.
Understanding the Nipah Virus
Nipah virus is a rare but highly dangerous infection carried primarily by fruit bats.
It can spread to both humans and pigs, and in severe cases, it may cause irreversible brain damage.
According to the UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA), the virus can be fatal in 40–75% of infected individuals.
Survivors may experience long-term neurological issues, including seizures and personality changes.
In rare instances, the virus can even lie dormant and reactivate months or years later.
Due to its severity, Nipah was classified as a “high priority pathogen” in March last year, highlighting the urgent need for investment in diagnostics, treatments, and vaccines.
How Nipah Virus Spreads
Most infections occur when people consume fruits or fruit juices contaminated with bat saliva, urine, or feces.
Fermented date palm sap is particularly risky.
Once infected, humans can pass the virus to others through close contact and bodily fluids—this is what triggered the current outbreak in India’s West Bengal region.
Safety Advice for Travelers
If you’re visiting areas where Nipah circulates, health chiefs recommend taking precautions to reduce your risk:
- Avoid raw or partially fermented date palm sap.
- Wash all fruit thoroughly with clean water and peel before eating.
- Steer clear of fruit that has fallen on the ground.
- Limit close contact with anyone showing symptoms of infection.
UKHSA emphasizes that while the risk remains very low for most people, understanding the virus is crucial for travelers.
Anyone who develops symptoms overseas should seek medical advice immediately, and anyone falling ill after returning to the UK should inform their healthcare provider and mention recent travel.
Recognizing Symptoms
Nipah typically starts with flu-like symptoms: fever, headache, sore throat, muscle aches, and vomiting.
In some cases, the infection progresses to encephalitis (brain inflammation) or meningitis, which can be fatal without intensive care.
Symptoms usually appear four to 14 days after exposure, but in rare cases, incubation can extend up to 45 days.
Current Outbreak in India
The latest outbreak is linked to a private hospital in West Bengal, where at least five healthcare workers became infected earlier this month.
Around 110 people who had contact with infected patients are now quarantined as a precaution.
While WHO officials say the risk of the virus spreading beyond India is low, they are monitoring the situation closely.
Past outbreaks in the region have been successfully contained through coordinated national and state health responses.
Regional Precautions
Countries in South and Southeast Asia are taking proactive steps.
Thailand has begun screening passengers arriving from West Bengal for fever and other Nipah symptoms, while Phuket International Airport has increased cleaning measures.
Nepal has also raised alert levels to prevent potential spread.
Key Takeaways
While the Nipah virus remains rare, it is highly dangerous.
Travelers to affected regions should practice strict food hygiene, avoid risky exposures, and seek prompt medical attention if symptoms appear.
Awareness and caution remain the best defenses against this deadly virus.
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