Authorities rule out significant Nipah virus threat to Uzbekistan

The risk of the Nipah virus spreading in Uzbekistan is extremely low, and the country’s epidemiological situation remains stable, Nurmat Otabekov, First Deputy Chairman of the Committee for Sanitary and Epidemiological Wellbeing and Public Health, has said.

According to Otabekov, the World Health Organization has also assessed that the Nipah virus is unlikely to trigger a large-scale epidemic or pandemic globally. The virus was first identified nearly 30 years ago and is primarily transmitted through bats and pigs. The risk of infection increases when people consume fruit that has been bitten or scratched by bats or come into close contact with these animals.

The official noted that, in rare cases, the Nipah virus can be transmitted from person to person, mainly among individuals who have close contact with infected patients, including healthcare workers. While the disease often progresses without symptoms or in a mild form, severe cases may lead to encephalitis, dysfunction of the liver, kidneys, and spleen, as well as fatal outcomes.

Otabekov stressed that there is currently no specific vaccine or antiviral treatment for the Nipah virus, and medical care is largely limited to symptomatic treatment. In this context, citizens planning to travel to India have been advised to observe strict personal hygiene, thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables, avoid drinking untested water, and refrain from contact with bats.

The sanitary authorities previously reported that no cases of Nipah virus infection have been recorded in Uzbekistan. To prevent the importation of infectious diseases, continuous epidemiological monitoring is being carried out at 54 border checkpoints across the country.

The comments come amid reports of a Nipah virus outbreak near the Indian city of Kolkata. Local health authorities have confirmed five cases so far, three of which were detected this week. The outbreak has raised public concern due to the virus’s high mortality rate and the absence of targeted treatment options.

To date, no specific drug or vaccine against the Nipah virus has been developed. Treatment focuses on supportive care, including respiratory support, maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance, and pain management. Health experts emphasize that prevention remains the most effective measure, including avoiding direct contact with animals and adhering strictly to food safety and hygiene practices.