The Institute of Epidemiology Disease Control and Research (IEDCR) has found Reovirus for the first time in the country.

The virus was found in the samples of five individuals, and none of them experienced significant health complications. All five have recovered and returned home after treatment, according to the IEDCR.

IEDCR Director Professor Tahmina Shirin told The Daily Star that the institute recently tested samples from 48 individuals showing symptoms similar to the Nipah virus. Among them, the Reovirus was found in the five persons.

They took the sampling as part of IEDCR's routine research on new pathogens in collaboration with Columbia University of United States, she said.

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She also said that Reovirus spreads through coughing and sneezing. Symptoms include respiratory problems, fever, headache, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, it can cause pneumonia or encephalitis (inflammation of the brain).

Children and the elderly are more vulnerable in this case. There is no cause for concern regarding this virus, she said.

Prof Tahmina also mentioned that many encephalitis patients are found in the country, but the cause often remains unidentified. This research could help improve treatment for such patients.

Reovirus was first identified globally in 1950, and outbreaks are more common in winter.