Nipah Virus Outbreak in West Bengal, India

Two cases of Nipah virus have been confirmed in West Bengal, India, reportedly in healthcare workers. 196 contacts have been traced and tested negative. The virus spreads from animals, such as pigs and fruit bats, to humans, and can also transmit person-to-person or via contaminated food. It has a high fatality rate of 40–75%, with no approved vaccine or treatment.

Symptoms range from fever, headache, muscle pain, vomiting, and sore throat to severe complications like encephalitis. The incubation period is 4–14 days.

Past outbreaks occurred in Malaysia, Singapore, Bangladesh, and India, including Kerala in 2018 and 2023.

Following the West Bengal cases, Thailand and Nepal have begun screening travelers from the region, while Taiwan is considering classifying Nipah as a Category 5 disease requiring special reporting. India’s health ministry says the situation is under constant monitoring.

02-02-2026