The Nipah virus has been detected in 35 districts across Bangladesh. The Institute of Epidemiology, Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) has issued a warning, noting that both the spread and the transmission patterns of this deadly virus are changing at an alarming rate.
The agency reported that in the past year (2025), all four recorded cases resulted in a 100% mortality rate. Furthermore, for the first time, an "off-season" case was identified.
These findings were presented by IEDCR Scientific Officer Sharmin Sultana during an exchange of views meeting titled "Spread and Risks of Nipah Virus" held on Wednesday (January 7) at the IEDCR auditorium.
Key Findings from 2025
According to the report, four Nipah patients were identified in Naogaon, Bhola, Rajbari, and Nilphamari districts in 2025—all of whom succumbed to the virus.
- First Off-Season Case: An 8-year-old child from Naogaon was identified as the country's first off-season case, diagnosed in August rather than the typical winter season.
- New Transmission Source: The child's infection was traced to eating fruit (blackberry, date, and mango) partially eaten by bats. This has been flagged as a new and alarming transmission route.
- High-Risk Zones: Out of 64 districts, the virus has now surfaced in 35. Infection and mortality rates are notably higher in Faridpur, Rajbari, Naogaon, and Lalmonirhat.
A Year-Round Threat
While raw date juice has historically been considered the primary source of infection, the 2025 Naogaon case proves that any fruit contaminated by bat saliva or urine can transmit the virus throughout the year.
The report also highlighted human-to-human transmission, stating that in approximately 28% of cases, the virus spreads directly from an infected person to others, posing a severe risk to healthcare workers and family members.
Expert Warnings
Professor Dr. Tahmina Shirin, Director of IEDCR, presided over the meeting and stated, "The 2025 off-season case and the new infection pathways are major warning signals for us. Nipah is no longer confined to winter or date juice; it has become a year-round, multi-faceted threat."
Dr. Syed Moinuddin Satter, Coordinator of the Nipah Virus Survey, confirmed that surveillance has been intensified in high-risk districts, and relevant hospitals have been instructed to remain on high alert.
In 2024, five people were infected with the virus, and all of them died. Experts noted that the 2025 data and the discovery of new transmission routes demand that Bangladesh's healthcare system remain even more vigilant and prepared.
