Khaberni - A WHO Emergency Health Programme official said on Friday that the risk of Nipah virus spread is low.
She pointed out that none of the more than 190 people who had contact with the two infected individuals in India have been proven to be infected or showed symptoms.
The two cases in India prompted authorities in Hong Kong, Malaysia, Singapore, Thailand, Vietnam, and other Asian countries to tighten airport screening measures this week to prevent the spread of infection.
Anais Logan stated at a press conference in Geneva, "The risk of the virus spreading at the national, regional, and global levels is considered low," adding that the two individuals did not travel while they were symptomatic.
She added that the two infected individuals were hospitalized and are alive, with one showing signs of improvement.
Logan said that WHO is waiting for India to announce the virus sequencing to assess any potential mutations, but she added that "there are no specific indications of concern at this time."
Nipah virus, carried by fruit bats and animals such as pigs, can cause fever and brain inflammation. The fatality rate ranges from 40 to 75 percent, there is no cure, and several vaccines are under development but are still being tested.
The World Health Organization says the source of the infection is not yet fully known. Logan said that there are hypotheses under study, such as infection from drinking palm juice or exposure to the virus in healthcare facilities.
