The Global Virus Network (GVN), a coalition of virologists from more than 90 Centers of Excellence and Affiliates in over 40 countries, is closely observing reports of a Nipah virus outbreak in India. The organization stated that while these cases are serious, they are not unexpected or unprecedented. According to GVN, sporadic infections with the Nipah virus have been reported almost every year in parts of South Asia, especially in India and Bangladesh. These incidents do not signal a new or increasing global threat.
Nipah virus is known as a zoonotic pathogen primarily carried by fruit bats. Human infections usually result from localized exposure, such as contact with infected animals or consumption of contaminated food. Although human-to-human transmission is possible, it remains rare and typically requires close contact during the acute phase of illness.
"Overall, the risk of regional or global spread of Nipah virus is very low," said Professor Linfa Wang, PhD, Director of the GVN Center of Excellence at Duke-NUS Medical School in Singapore. "Similar outbreaks have occurred repeatedly in India and Bangladesh, driven largely by specific cultural and environmental factors rather than sustained human transmission."
Countries with robust public health systems and surveillance infrastructure are better equipped to reduce risks associated with Nipah virus through early detection and rapid diagnostics.
GVN’s network includes the Institute of Advanced Virology (IAV) in Kerala—an Affiliate working alongside Centers at University College Dublin and Hokkaido University. Researchers at IAV focus on Nipah virus research, ongoing surveillance efforts, and developing new diagnostic tests.
Currently there are no approved vaccines or antiviral treatments for Nipah virus; however, some candidates have shown effectiveness in animal studies. Professor Wang added: "Progress depends on sustained public-good investment and international cooperation."
The GVN emphasized that this outbreak does not constitute a global emergency but reinforces the importance of continuous surveillance, improved diagnostics, and strong international scientific collaboration to respond to emerging infectious threats.
