Nipah Outbreak Risk in Pakistan Remains Low: NIH

Pakistan has tightened preparedness measures against the Nipah virus, though health officials say the risk of an outbreak remains low.

Officials from the National Institutes of Health told a high level meeting on Thursday that while no Nipah cases have been detected in Pakistan so far, the presence of animal reservoirs means the threat cannot be completely ruled out.

The meeting was held at the Ministry of National Health Services on the directions of Health Minister Mustafa Kamal to review national readiness.

Director General Health Dr Abdul Wali Khan said Pakistan has sufficient laboratory capacity and diagnostic kits to test suspected cases, but noted that no approved vaccine or specific antiviral treatment exists. Officials confirmed that designated isolation facilities are available at major federal hospitals and trained staff are ready to handle suspected cases.

Health authorities said fruit bats, the natural reservoir of the virus, are present in Pakistan, particularly in northern and forested areas, but stressed there is no scientific evidence of active Nipah virus circulation or human transmission in the country.

Border Health Services officials said enhanced screening of incoming passengers is underway, including thermal checks and travel history assessments, especially for travelers from high risk regions.

Health experts reiterated that Nipah is a highly fatal disease, with a past fatality rate ranging from 40 to 75 percent. Officials urged vigilance without panic and emphasized public awareness, including safe food handling, washing fruits thoroughly, and avoiding partially eaten or fallen fruit.