26.01.2026 23:19
The World Health Organization has called for urgent research on the Nipah virus, which has re-emerged in India; Infectious Diseases Specialist Dr. Behiç Oral stated, "Although the Nipah virus is rarely seen, when contracted, it can lead to a very severe and rapidly progressing clinical picture."
Infectious Diseases Specialist Dr. Behiç Oral stated, "Although the Nipah virus is rarely seen, it can lead to a very severe and rapidly progressing clinical picture when contracted. Especially in cases where encephalitis develops, the mortality rates can reach serious levels."
The World Health Organization (WHO) has called for urgent research on the Nipah virus, which has re-emerged in India and has no treatment.
Due to the virus, which has a mortality rate of up to 75%, quarantine measures have been increased in West Bengal. Specialist Dr. Behiç Oral from the Infectious Diseases Department of Güven Hospital provided evaluations regarding the course and transmission risks of the Nipah virus.
"IT CAN LEAD TO A VERY SEVERE AND RAPIDLY PROGRESSING PICTURE"
Emphasizing the importance of the WHO's warnings following the cases in India, Oral said, "The potential for human-to-human transmission and the lack of an effective vaccine or specific treatment make the Nipah virus a global risk. The disease can start with flu-like symptoms in the early stages. Symptoms such as fever, headache, and fatigue can quickly progress to confusion, seizures, and coma. Although the Nipah virus is rarely seen, it can lead to a very severe and rapidly progressing clinical picture when contracted. Especially in cases where encephalitis develops, the mortality rates can reach serious levels. Therefore, symptoms should definitely not be underestimated in individuals coming from particularly risky areas or with a history of contact. Fruits that have bat contact, unhygienic foods, and some products consumed raw can pose a risk for transmission. Additionally, close contact with infected individuals is also an important factor in human-to-human transmission," he stated.
"PROTECTION IS OUR STRONGEST WEAPON RIGHT NOW"
Emphasizing the vital importance of protection against the Nipah virus, Dr. Behiç Oral said, "Since we currently do not have a vaccine or a clear treatment, prevention is the most effective method. Rapid isolation in suspected cases, hand hygiene, food safety, and the use of personal protective equipment by healthcare workers are of great importance. Statements that create fear in the community should be avoided. Such news should serve to raise awareness, not panic. Accurate information, early diagnosis, and following the warnings of health authorities are the safest approaches," he said.