What Is Nipah Virus?

Nipah virus is a serious virus that can make people very sick. It was first found in 1998 in Malaysia and later in countries like Bangladesh and India. The virus mainly harms the brain and can also affect the lungs. Some people get mild symptoms, but others can get very ill fast, which is why it is important to know about it and stay careful.

Nipah virus usually comes from fruit bats (also called flying foxes) that carry the virus without getting sick. People can get it from contact with bat saliva or urine on fruits or raw palm juice, or from sick animals that have been in contact with bats. Recently in 2026, a few confirmed cases were reported in eastern India, and health authorities are watching the situation carefully. There are no confirmed human cases in Pakistan right now, but being aware of the virus and its symptoms can help families act quickly if someone becomes sick.

Where Did Nipah Virus Come From?

Nipah virus was first identified in 1998 during an outbreak in Malaysia. Later, cases were also reported in countries like Bangladesh and India. Scientists found that the virus naturally lives in fruit bats, which are common in many parts of South and Southeast Asia. These bats usually do not get sick, but they can carry and spread the virus.

In recent years, Nipah virus cases have mostly appeared in parts of India and Bangladesh. Health authorities closely monitor these cases and take quick action to stop further spread. At the moment, there is no confirmed outbreak in Pakistan, but because nearby countries have reported cases, awareness is very important. Knowing where the virus comes from helps people understand why prevention and early caution matter.

How Does Nipah Virus Spread From One Person to Another?

Nipah virus can spread to humans in different ways. Most commonly, it spreads from animals to people, especially through fruit bats. People may get infected by eating fruits that are contaminated with bat saliva or urine, or by drinking raw or uncovered fruit juices. In some cases, the virus has also spread from infected animals, such as pigs, to humans.

The virus can also spread from one person to another through close contact. This usually happens when someone is caring for a sick person or comes into contact with their body fluids. Nipah virus does not spread easily like flu or COVID-19, but close and repeated contact can increase the risk. This is why caregivers and healthcare workers need to follow proper hygiene and safety steps.

In Pakistan, extra care is needed during the month of Ramzan. Fruits, fresh juices, and dates are commonly used at iftar and sehri. Many fruits and dates are imported, while others are sold openly in markets. It is not possible to say that fruits or juices are unsafe, but washing fruits properly and avoiding open or unhygienic juices is very important. Being careful with food hygiene is a simple step that can help protect families during this time.

Common Signs and Symptoms to Watch For

The early signs of Nipah virus infection often look like common viral illnesses. This is why people may ignore them in the beginning. Fever is usually the first symptom, but other signs can appear along with it. Paying attention to these early symptoms can help people seek medical care on time.

Common early symptoms may include:

• Fever (often sudden or high)
• Headache
• Body aches or muscle pain
• Tiredness or weakness
• Sore throat
• Nausea or vomiting

In some cases, the illness can become serious very quickly. These warning signs should never be ignored:

Serious symptoms that need urgent medical care:

• Confusion or unusual behavior
• Difficulty in breathing
• Dizziness or loss of balance
• Extreme sleepiness or unconsciousness
• Seizures or fits

Why Early Fever Should Never Be Ignored

Fever is often the first sign that the body is fighting an infection. Many people ignore fever or delay checking their temperature, thinking it is just a normal flu. However, in some viral infections, early fever can be a warning sign that should not be taken lightly. Health experts advise regular temperature monitoring at home, especially when unusual symptoms appear.

Both digital thermometers and infrared thermometers are commonly used to check body temperature at home. A reliable digital device like the Certeza FT-709 Digital Thermometer helps families monitor fever accurately and decide when medical advice is needed. If you are looking for the Best Digital Thermometer or want to buy a digital thermometer at the best price in Pakistan, choosing a trusted thermometer can support early detection and better health decisions.

How Nipah Virus Can Affect the Brain and Body

Nipah virus can affect different parts of the body, but it mainly targets the brain. In some patients, the virus causes swelling of the brain, which is known as encephalitis. This can lead to symptoms like severe headache, confusion, dizziness, or changes in behavior. These effects can appear suddenly and may get worse if medical help is delayed.

The virus can also affect the body by causing breathing problems and extreme weakness. Some people may feel very tired, have difficulty breathing, or become unusually sleepy. Because the virus can affect both the brain and the lungs, quick medical attention is very important. Early recognition of symptoms can help reduce serious complications.

Who Is at Higher Risk of Infection?

Some people have a higher risk of getting infected with Nipah virus than others. This includes people who are in close contact with infected patients, such as family members and caregivers. Healthcare workers can also be at higher risk if proper safety measures are not followed while treating patients.

People who live in areas where fruit bats are common, or those who consume unwashed fruits or open fruit juices, may also face a higher risk. Children, elderly people, and those with weak immune systems should be extra careful. Understanding who is at higher risk helps families take better precautions and protect vulnerable members.

Simple Steps to Reduce the Risk of Infection

Reducing the risk of infection does not require complicated steps. Simple daily habits can make a big difference. Washing hands regularly with soap, especially before eating and after caring for a sick person, is very important. Fruits should always be washed properly before use, and open or unhygienic fruit juices should be avoided whenever possible.

At home, keeping surroundings clean and avoiding close contact with anyone who has fever or unusual symptoms can help reduce risk. During seasons like Ramzan, when fruits and juices are used more often, extra care with food hygiene is necessary. These small but careful actions can help protect families and reduce the chance of infection.

When Should You See a Doctor Immediately?

Seeing a doctor at the right time can make a big difference in serious infections. If someone has a high fever that does not go down, or fever that lasts more than one day, medical advice should be taken. Fever along with headache, weakness, or vomiting should not be ignored, especially if the person recently felt unusually unwell.

Immediate medical help is very important if fever is followed by confusion, breathing problems, extreme sleepiness, or fits. These symptoms can be signs of a serious condition and need urgent care. Early medical attention helps doctors manage the illness better and reduces the risk of complications.

Awareness, Not Panic: How Families Can Stay Prepared

Health awareness means being informed and prepared, not being afraid. Learning about diseases like Nipah virus helps families recognize early warning signs and take timely action. Simple habits such as monitoring fever, maintaining hygiene, and avoiding unsafe food practices can help reduce health risks. Staying informed through trusted sources is always better than believing rumors.

Families can stay prepared by keeping basic health tools at home and knowing when to seek medical advice. Early checking of symptoms, especially fever, allows people to act before a condition becomes serious. By choosing awareness over panic, families can protect themselves and support a healthier community.

At Certeza Store, we believe that health awareness is the first step toward prevention. Understanding early symptoms and taking timely action can help families stay safe.