CDC lists Nipah virus as Category 5 notifiable diseaseStaff writer, with CNAThe Centers for Disease Control (CDC) yesterday officially designated Nipah virus as a Category 5 notifiable disease, requiring suspected cases to be reported within 24 hours. The CDC said the decision to elevate Nipah virus to a Category 5 disease reflects ongoing outbreaks abroad and its high fatality rate and transmission risks, aiming to strengthen early warning systems, raise public awareness and ensure rapid response to future cases. An illustration photographed in Toulouse, France, on Feb. 18 shows screens displaying a representation of the Nipah virus and information about its symptoms and modes of transmission. Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease transmitted through direct contact with infected pigs or contaminated tissues. Several countries, including Japan, Singapore, South Korea, Thailand and India, have already classified Nipah virus infection as a notifiable disease, she said.

Source: Taipei Times April 02, 2026 16:03 UTC