THE Department of Health has reassured South Africans that Nipah virus (NiV) is not a big worry for the country right now. The virus, which has a 40-75% fatality rate, has been on numerous people’s radars following cases confirmed in India.

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This statement comes after Indian officials said there were two NiV cases in January 2026.

“The department is working closely with the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD) which is closely monitoring the situation as the outbreak evolves and will keep the public informed of any new developments. The scientists have advised that at this stage there is a very low risk outside the affected countries and there is no need for screening at ports of entry. Meanwhile, the NICD will be offering training to the Civil Aviation Authority as part of efforts to assist in communicating the message through the airlines and airport staff,” read the statement.

What is the Nipah virus?

NiV is a zoonotic disease that can spread from animals to people.

“Transmission of this deadly virus to humans can occur from direct contact with infected animals like bats, farming animals such as pigs or horses and by consuming fruits or fruit products, such as raw date palm juice, contaminated by infected fruit bats,” said the department.

Symptoms of the NiV:

• Fever
• Headache
• Difficulty breathing
• Cough

The department added that the World Health Organisation said currently there is no treatment or vaccine for the NiV, but there are several potential candidates being tested.

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