The Ministry of Health has issued a public advisory on the Nipah virus following recent overseas cases, including an outbreak reported in India in late January 2026, and public health alerts released by neighbouring countries.

In a statement, the ministry said the advisory is a precautionary measure aimed at raising public awareness, supporting early recognition of symptoms, and ensuring Samoa’s continued national preparedness. Authorities stressed that there are currently no confirmed cases of Nipah virus in Samoa, and the overall risk to the general public remains low.

Nipah virus is a serious infectious disease that can spread from animals to humans and, in limited situations, from person to person. Infection may cause fever and severe illness affecting the brain or lungs. In some countries, the disease has been associated with high fatality rates.

Since it was first identified in 1998, Nipah virus cases have mainly been reported in parts of South and Southeast Asia, including Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, Singapore and the Philippines. The most recent outbreak was confirmed in India in January 2026.

Health officials explained that fruit bats are the natural host of the virus and do not show signs of illness when infected. Transmission to humans can occur through close contact with infected animals such as bats or pigs, or by consuming food contaminated by bats. In certain outbreaks, person-to-person transmission has also been reported, particularly among family members and in health-care settings where infection prevention and control measures are limited.

There is currently no specific treatment or vaccine available for the Nipah virus. Management of cases relies on supportive medical care to treat symptoms and complications.

The World Health Organisation has classified the Nipah virus as a priority disease for research and preparedness due to its potential to cause serious public health emergencies.

The Ministry of Health said it is closely monitoring international developments and continues to work with regional and global partners to strengthen surveillance, preparedness and response systems in Samoa.

“At this stage, no additional public health measures or travel restrictions are required,” the ministry said, while encouraging the public to stay informed through official health updates.

The ministry also reminded the public of the importance of good hygiene practices and food safety, noting that early awareness and timely medical attention are key to preventing and managing infectious diseases.