Could Nipah Reach the United States?

U.S. health officials say the risk is very low.

As of January 29, 2026, there have been no confirmed Nipah cases in the United States, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC).

The CDC notes that the fruit bats linked to Nipah do not live in North America, reducing the risk of the virus spreading naturally in the U.S.

While the CDC continues routine monitoring for infectious diseases and U.S. labs can test for Nipah if needed, there are no current warnings suggesting the virus is likely to reach the country.