Infectious disease experts have said that Pakistan currently faces no direct threat from the Nipah virus, noting that only a limited number of cases are reported globally each year. According to experts, just 10 cases were reported worldwide last year, and no case has so far been detected in Pakistan.
The remarks were made by Associate Chief Medical Officer at Aga Khan University Hospital (AKUH), Dr Faisal Mahmood, and Section Head of Infectious Diseases Dr Nosheen Nasir during a roundtable conference held at AKUH. Experts briefed participants on the global situation of the Nipah virus, potential risks for Pakistan, and preventive measures.
Experts explained that the virus is a zoonotic infection transmitted from animals to humans, with limited human-to-human transmission, which is why outbreaks remain small. Most cases have historically been reported in eastern India, Bangladesh, and Singapore. The virus was first identified in Malaysia in 1998.
Doctors stated that Pakistan currently has no reported cases and no immediate need for nationwide screening. In suspected cases, testing can be conducted through the National Institute of Health (NIH).
They advised the public to maintain hygiene, wash fruits before consumption, and avoid partially eaten or contaminated fruit, while stressing that measles, chickenpox, HIV, and hepatitis C remain more pressing health challenges in Pakistan.
