Building the Future of Biodefense

Recommendation: Nipah virus is severe and often deadly. Individuals are typically infected after consuming fruit or fruit products contaminated by fruit bats. Bangladesh experiences periodic small Nipah virus outbreaks year-round, most commonly between December and April during the date palm sap harvest season. Organizations in Bangladesh should advise employees not to consume raw juice or raw fruit that has been left in the open.

Situation: The WHO confirmed a fatal case of Nipah virus in Rajshahi Division, Bangladesh, involving a middle-aged woman with no travel history but who reported repeated consumption of raw date palm sap. The individual developed symptoms on 1/21 and died on 1/28. Health officials launched an investigation, contact tracing, and community awareness efforts. So far, 35 contacts have been identified and are under monitoring. As of 2/3, no additional cases have been identified. WHO assessed the public health risk at the national and global level as Low. [Confidence: Very High]

Recommendation: Employers can support employees in obtaining mpox vaccinations by providing flexible work schedules. Information on the availability of mpox vaccines and treatment can also be included in employee wellness communication.

Situation: According to media sources, health officials in Galicia, Spain, reported an mpox outbreak in the province of A Coruña with 7 confirmed cases, bringing the regional total to 9 from 12/15 to 1/25. 2 cases were linked to a sauna located in A Coruña, with the rest of the cases connected to establishments outside of Galicia. Testing is ongoing to determine the clade. Elsewhere, Germany reported locally acquired cases of the mpox clade Ib in Berlin, Germany, for the 1st time. The 1st case was confirmed in mid-December 2025 in an individual who had traveled to another European country, followed by 2 additional cases in January, likely contracted in Berlin, with sexual contact suspected as a possible source of infection. No direct epidemiological links between the affected individuals have been identified, suggesting community transmission. Additionally, at least 2 internationally reported clade Ib cases were also believed to have been infected in Berlin. There has been a rise in mpox clade 1b cases in Europe since December (see PHC alert 1/20). Officials in Spain and Germany urged safe sex practices, vaccination of vulnerable groups, and early medical consultation to prevent further transmission. [Confidence: Very High]