Currently, no cases of Nipah virus infection have been recorded in Azerbaijan.
This information was provided by the Ministry of Health in response to an inquiry from Modern.az.
"The virus is not considered endemic for our country, and based on the current epidemiological situation, there is no real threat to the population. The risk of internal spread is assessed as low, and the process is constantly monitored by the Ministry of Health.
Nipah virus is a zoonotic (transmitted from animals to humans) pathogen belonging to the Paramyxoviridae family, causing a particularly dangerous infectious disease. It can primarily be transmitted to humans through the consumption of fruits and fruit juices contaminated by bats, contact with infected animals (especially pigs), and rarely, through airborne droplets from an infected person.
The incubation period of the disease usually ranges from 5–14 days, but in some cases, it can extend up to 45 days. Clinical symptoms include high fever, headache, muscle sore throat, altered consciousness, encephalitis, seizures, and in severe cases, coma. Currently, there is no specific treatment or vaccine for the disease; treatment is mainly symptomatic.
The epidemiological risk level in Azerbaijan is low, and the disease can only be introduced from outside. Due to the virus not being easily transmitted from person to person, the probability of widespread dissemination is minimal.
The situation is constantly monitored by the Ministry of Health. Sanitary-epidemiological control has been strengthened, especially at border crossing points. In case suspicious cases are detected, relevant examinations can be carried out in the biosafety level 2 and 3 laboratories of the Center for Control of Particularly Dangerous Infections.
At the same time, information from the World Health Organization and other international bodies is regularly monitored.
For prophylactic purposes, it is recommended not to consume fruits that may be contaminated by bats without washing them, to avoid unpasteurized fruit juices, and to use personal protective equipment when in contact with sick individuals.
At the current stage, there is no need for additional special restrictions for the population. Adherence to general sanitary and hygienic rules is sufficient. Individuals returning from endemic areas are advised to monitor their health and consult a doctor in a timely manner if any suspicious symptoms arise.
Currently, the disease is under epidemiological control, and there is no cause for alarm.
