Taipei, Jan. 25 (CNA) – The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) in Taiwan is set to classify Nipah virus infection as a Category 5 notifiable disease due to a recent outbreak in India. This proposed change was announced on January 16, and it will undergo a 60-day comment period from the public before becoming effective.
Since 2018, Nipah virus has been under priority surveillance in Taiwan, but globally, over 750 cases have been documented since the virus’s identification in 1998, with a concerning fatality rate of approximately 58 percent. By classifying it as a Category 5 disease, Taiwan recognizes Nipah virus infection as an emerging or rare public health threat that warrants immediate reporting and special control measures.
Indian authorities are actively working to contain a Nipah virus outbreak in West Bengal, where five infections were confirmed as of January 19, according to CDC Deputy Director-General Lin Ming-cheng. Although the outbreak is being monitored, Taiwan has maintained a Level 2 “yellow” travel alert for Kerala, a historic hotspot for the virus, but has not issued any warnings for West Bengal or other regions.
Under Taiwan’s travel advisory system, a Level 2 alert encourages travelers to exercise heightened caution and implement preventive measures without imposing travel restrictions. Lin indicated that travel advisories would be adjusted based on the outbreak’s progression. If community transmission were to occur, the advisory levels may be raised. Conversely, if infections remain limited to hospital settings, travelers will be advised to avoid medical facilities in those areas.
The CDC has emphasized that fruit bats are the natural reservoir for the Nipah virus, and contamination of coconuts with bat saliva or urine could pose an infection risk. Travelers to India are advised to refrain from consuming raw or unheated foods and drinks, especially raw coconut juice.
Nipah virus can be transmitted to humans through contact with infected bats or animals, such as pigs, as well as through respiratory droplets or direct contact with bodily fluids. Cases of limited human-to-human transmission have also been noted. Symptoms of Nipah virus infection can vary significantly, ranging from asymptomatic cases to severe respiratory illness and fatal encephalitis.
As Taiwan takes proactive steps to mitigate the risks associated with this infectious disease, the situation highlights the importance of vigilance and public health preparedness in response to emerging viral threats.