Situation related to Nipah virus in Uzbekistan remains stable – Nurmat Atabekov

Earlier reports stated that the Nipah virus is spreading in India and may lead to severe consequences. Nurmat Atabekov, First Deputy Chairman of the Committee for Sanitary and Epidemiological Well-Being and Public Health, provided information on the situation related to this virus.

According to him, the epidemiological situation regarding the Nipah virus in Uzbekistan remains stable, and there are no grounds for concern. This is due to the very low likelihood of the virus spreading within the territory of Uzbekistan.

At the same time, the World Health Organization has emphasized that the virus does not pose a risk of causing a large-scale epidemic or pandemic worldwide.

The Nipah virus was first identified nearly 30 years ago and belongs to the category of highly dangerous viruses. It is primarily transmitted through bats and pigs. In particular, consumption of fruits that have been bitten or scratched by bats, as well as close and frequent contact with these animals, increases the risk of infection.

In some cases, the virus may also be transmitted from person to person, mainly among individuals who have had close contact with an infected patient. Healthcare workers are also considered to be among the risk groups.

In many cases, the infection may be asymptomatic or latent. In severe forms, serious symptoms such as inflammation of the brain membranes (meningoencephalitis), dysfunction of the liver, kidneys, and spleen, as well as fatal outcomes, may be observed.

At present, no specific vaccine against the Nipah virus has been developed. Treatment is primarily symptomatic, based on the clinical manifestations observed in the patient.

Although the likelihood of the virus entering Uzbekistan is very low, Uzbek citizens planning to travel to India in the coming days are advised to take several preventive measures.

In particular, it is recommended to observe personal hygiene rules, clean hands with soap or antiseptic agents, thoroughly wash fruits and vegetables before consumption, avoid drinking unverified water, and refrain from consuming fruits that may have been bitten or scratched by bats.

If symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, or other signs of illness appear, immediate medical attention should be sought.

For reference, continuous monitoring is currently being carried out at 54 border checkpoints in Uzbekistan in order to maintain a stable epidemiological situation and prevent the entry of potentially dangerous diseases from abroad.