Nipah Virus: Samoa’s Health Ministry Issues Public Advisory

2026-02-05 - 19:38

PUBLIC AWARENESS ADVISORY: NIPAH VIRUS. The Ministry of Health wishes to inform the general public about Nipah virus, following recent reports of cases overseas, including in India in late January 2026, and regional public health advisories issued by neighboring countries. This advisory is issued as a precautionary measure to raise awareness, support early recognition, and ensure continued national preparedness. At this time, there are no confirmed cases of Nipah virus in Samoa, and the overall risk to the general public remains low. Nipah Virus – What you need to know: Nipah virus is a serious disease that can spread from animals to humans and, in limited situations, from person to person. Infection may cause fever and illness affecting the brain or lungs. Severe disease has been reported in some countries, with high fatality rates. Since its identification in 1998, cases have mainly occurred in parts of South and Southeast Asia, including Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Singapore, and the Philippines. The most recent outbreak was reported in India in January 2026. Flying foxes also known as fruit bats, (Pteropis spp.), the primary hosts of Nipah Virus. Source: Vitrosens. Fruit bats are the natural host of Nipah virus and do not become ill when infected. Transmission to humans can occur through close contact with infected animals, such as bats or pigs, or through food contaminated by bats. Symptoms of Nipah virus. Greenology is Samoa’s leading provider of ICT Solutions! In some outbreaks, the virus has also spread between people through close contact, particularly in health-care and household settings where infection prevention measures are limited. There is currently no specific treatment or vaccine for Nipah virus and management of cases relies on supportive medical care. The World Health Organization has identified Nipah virus as a priority disease for research and preparedness due to its potential public health impact. The Ministry of Health continues to monitor international developments and is working with regional and global partners to ensure Samoa’s preparedness and readiness. At this stage, no additional public health measures or travel restrictions are required. The Ministry encourages the public to remain informed through official Ministry of Health communications and to avoid misinformation. For more information, please contact telephones numbers: 66600 or 21212.