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| Photo File (X/@warintel4u) |
Health authorities in India’s West Bengal state have confirmed five cases of the highly fatal Nipah virus, marking the state’s first outbreak since 2007. Officials said the infections were detected earlier this month in Barasat and are linked to a private hospital.
According to local health officials, those infected include two nurses, one doctor, and two other healthcare workers, raising concerns about hospital-based transmission. All confirmed cases are currently under medical care, with authorities closely monitoring their condition.
As part of containment measures, nearly 100 individuals who came into contact with the patients have been placed under home quarantine, while 20 high-risk contacts have been isolated. Officials said around 180 samples have been tested so far, with all results returning negative.
A national-level rapid response team has been deployed to trace contacts and investigate the source of the outbreak. Experts are also collecting samples from bats, which are considered the natural reservoir of the Nipah virus, to better understand the transmission route.
Health authorities are providing supportive treatment, including antiviral medication such as Remdesivir, though there is no specific cure for Nipah virus infection. The virus has a reported fatality rate ranging from 40 to 75 percent, depending on outbreak conditions and healthcare response.
Officials have urged the public to remain vigilant, avoid consumption of potentially contaminated food, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as fever, headache, or respiratory distress appear. The state government said swift action and early detection are key to preventing further spread.
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