Nipah Virus: Not Fear, but Awareness and Preparedness Are Essential؛
Dr. Shabbir Ahmed
(By Muhammad Mansoor Mumtaz Lahore)
Public Health Expert Dr. Shabbir Ahmed Urges Awareness, Not Panic, Over Regional Concerns About Nipah virus
In the aftermath of COVID-19, public health systems worldwide remain vigilant against emerging infectious diseases. Among these threats is the Nipah virus — a rare but highly dangerous pathogen — whose reported cases in parts of South Asia have raised concern across the region. Experts say no case has been reported in Pakistan so far; however, awareness and preparedness remain critically important. In a special conversation, pharmaceutical and public health expert Dr. Shabbir Ahmed (RPh) emphasized that spreading fear is unnecessary; instead, accurate information and preventive measures are essential.
“Nipah virus is not a new disease, but it is medically very serious. Pakistan does not need panic — it needs awareness, preparedness, and responsible behavior — exactly the lesson COVID-19 taught us.”
What is the Nipah Virus?
According to Dr. Shabbir Ahmed, Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease, meaning it spreads from animals to humans. Fruit bats are the natural hosts of the virus.
He explained that transmission may occur through:
Direct contact with infected bats
Consumption of contaminated fruit or food
Close contact with bodily fluids of an infected patient
He clarified:
“Unlike COVID-19, the virus does not spread easily through the air, but close contact can be dangerous.”
Symptoms: From Fever to Brain Inflammation
Dr. Ahmed stated that early symptoms resemble common viral fever, including:
High fever
Headache
Body aches and severe fatigue
Vomiting
However, in many patients the disease can rapidly become severe, leading to:
Breathing difficulties
Brain inflammation (encephalitis)
Confusion and seizures
Unconsciousness or coma
“When the virus attacks the brain, treatment becomes extremely difficult; therefore, early diagnosis and isolation are crucial.”
Affected Countries and Regional Context
Dr. Ahmed noted that most outbreaks have historically been reported in Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, and Singapore, where effective measures helped contain the outbreaks.
“Pakistan is currently safe, but due to regional proximity, monitoring and precaution remain necessary.”
Fatality Rate and Comparison with COVID-19
Experts report that Nipah virus has a fatality rate ranging from 40 to 75 percent, making it medically alarming.
Dr. Ahmed explained:
“COVID-19 spread rapidly, but Nipah virus spreads less easily and can be more deadly.”
He further noted:
Vaccines and specific treatments exist for COVID-19
No vaccine or specific antiviral treatment is currently available for Nipah virus
Treatment is mainly supportive and symptomatic
Preventive Measures for Pakistan
Dr. Shabbir Ahmed stressed that Pakistan can benefit from its COVID-19 experience by maintaining simple but effective measures:
✔ Screening travelers arriving from affected regions
✔ Public awareness regarding safe food consumption
✔ Avoiding unnecessary contact with wildlife and bats
✔ Seeking immediate medical care if fever appears with neurological symptoms
“These measures are simple, effective, and practical without creating fear.”
Role of the Health Department
According to him, health institutions should prioritize:
Infection control training in hospitals
Availability of isolation facilities
Enhanced laboratory diagnostic capacity
Rapid response and contact tracing teams
“Protecting healthcare workers means protecting the entire nation.”
Why Public Cooperation Matters
Dr. Ahmed emphasized that public awareness is a critical component in disease prevention.
“Accurate information, avoiding rumors, and following official guidelines save lives. COVID-19 taught us this lesson, and the same principle applies here.”
Conclusion: Preparedness, Not Panic
Nipah virus is a serious yet manageable threat. Experts believe Pakistan can effectively respond to such health risks through vigilance, a strong healthcare system, and public cooperation.
In conclusion, Dr. Shabbir Ahmed stated:
“Preparedness is not fear — it is foresight. With the right strategy, Pakistan can effectively face future health challenges.”
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