The Department of Health has assured South Africans that there is no immediate risk to the country following the detection of the deadly Nipah virus (NiV) outbreak in India, where two positive cases have been confirmed.

The department released a statement on Friday after concerns mounted over about the virus, which is known for causing severe illness and has a high fatality rate in some outbreaks.

According to the department, it is working closely with the National Institute for Communicable Diseases (NICD), which is actively monitoring developments as the situation evolves. Health authorities have emphasised that the risk of transmission outside the affected countries remains very low, and there is currently no need for public panic.

At this stage, experts have advised that screening at South Africa’s ports of entry is not required.

However, as part of preparedness and risk-communication measures, the NICD will provide training to the Civil Aviation Authority, as well as airline and airport staff, to assist with awareness and information sharing.

What is the Nipah virus?

Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. The virus is typically spread through direct contact with infected animals such as fruit bats, pigs or horses, consumption of contaminated food products — including fruits or raw date palm juice — or through close person-to-person contact.

Common symptoms of Nipah virus infection include fever, headache, coughing and difficulty breathing, which can progress to more severe illness.

While Nipah virus is not currently listed as a notifiable medical condition in South Africa, the Department of Health confirmed that it will be classified as a respiratory disease of unknown origin, which is notifiable. Laboratory testing is available at the NICD, and key health resources have been updated to reflect the current outbreak.

The World Health Organization (WHO) has previously stated that there is no specific treatment or approved vaccine for Nipah virus, although several candidate vaccines and therapeutics are under development. Health experts note that early intensive supportive care can improve patient outcomes.

In the absence of a vaccine, authorities have reiterated that non-pharmaceutical interventions, including good hygiene practices, remain critical in reducing the risk of transmission. Members of the public are advised to avoid contact with sick animals, wear protective clothing when handling animals, exercise caution during slaughtering processes, and avoid consuming potentially contaminated fruit products.

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