Sanitary and Epidemiological Committee warns Uzbek citizens about Nipah virus

Earlier, reports emerged that the highly dangerous Nipah virus, for which no vaccine or specific treatment is currently available, had spread near the Indian city of Kolkata. Uzbekistan’s Sanitary and Epidemiological Committee has provided information regarding the virus.

According to the committee, the Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans, particularly from bats. It can also spread through contaminated food and via human-to-human transmission.

The Nipah virus is known to cause severe illness, including inflammation of the brain or respiratory diseases.

In recent years, outbreaks of the virus have been regularly recorded in India, while cases of human infection have also been reported in several Southeast Asian countries.

“The Nipah virus has not been detected in Uzbekistan. The epidemiological situation remains stable,” the statement said.

Although the likelihood of the disease being introduced into Uzbekistan is very low, Uzbek citizens planning to travel to India are advised to follow the recommendations below to reduce the risk of infection:

• observe personal hygiene rules;
• wash hands thoroughly with soap;
• use antiseptic products;
• wash fruits and vegetables before consumption;
• avoid drinking untreated water;
• most importantly, do not consume fruits that have been bitten or damaged by bats.

If symptoms such as high fever, severe headache, dizziness, or other signs of illness appear, individuals are urged to seek medical attention immediately.

To maintain a stable epidemiological situation in the country and prevent the importation of infectious diseases, continuous monitoring is being carried out at 54 border checkpoints.

Following established health guidelines and recommendations is essential in preventing the spread of any disease.