The World Health Organization (WHO) has assessed that the risk of the Nipah virus spreading in India and beyond remains low, even after two laboratory-confirmed infections were reported in the eastern state of West Bengal. The update on the rare but serious viral disease came on Friday as global health authorities continue monitoring the situation.
Confirmed Infections in West Bengal
India notified WHO on January 26 that two cases of Nipah virus infection had been detected in Barasat, North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. Both patients, healthcare workers aged between 20 and 30, tested positive following laboratory confirmation by the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune. One patient remains on critical care while the other has shown clinical improvement.
So far, no additional cases have been identified beyond these two infections. Authorities have traced and tested over 190 contacts, including health workers and community members, and none have tested positive for the virus or shown symptoms.
WHO Risk Assessment and Response Measures
In its latest Disease Outbreak News bulletin, WHO described the public health risk as moderate at sub-national level but low at the national, regional, and global levels. Enhanced surveillance, infection prevention and control efforts are underway in the affected district, with field investigations continuing to identify the source of exposure.
The agency also noted India’s experience and capacity in managing past Nipah outbreaks, stressing that swift containment measures have helped prevent wider spread. WHO confirmed that there is no need for travel or trade restrictions at present, and there is no evidence of increased human-to-human transmission in this event.
Understanding Nipah Virus and Public Concerns
Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease transmitted from animals, primarily fruit bats, to humans through direct contact or via contaminated food items like raw date palm sap. Human-to-human transmission can occur through close contact but is generally limited. The virus can cause symptoms ranging from fever, headache and muscle pain to severe neurological complications, including encephalitis and coma. Fatality rates in past outbreaks have ranged from 40 to 75 per cent.
There is currently no licensed vaccine or specific antiviral treatment for Nipah virus infection; clinical care focuses on supportive measures. Health officials emphasise awareness, early detection, and infection control as key to preventing transmission.
Neighbouring Countries’ Actions
Following reports of the cases, several Asian countries including Thailand, Malaysia, Singapore and Vietnam have resumed health screenings at airports, largely as a precautionary step. WHO has not endorsed these measures but continues to work with national authorities to share data and guidance.
The updated risk assessment and ongoing surveillance aim to reassure the public while maintaining vigilance against any potential escalation.
