Nipah Virus Outbreak in West Bengal, India: Cases Rise to Five, Prompting Urgent Containment Measures
Kolkata, India – January 23, 2026 – A concerning outbreak of nipah virus (NiV) is unfolding in West Bengal, India, with health authorities confirming two additional cases among healthcare workers. This brings teh total number of confirmed infections to five, prompting a rapid response to contain the spread of the possibly deadly virus.
According to reports from The Independent and confirmed by the Indian Ministry of Health, the newly infected individuals are both nurses who were caring for previously diagnosed patients. Both are currently hospitalized in critical condition within the Intensive Cardiac Care Unit (ICCU) and require respiratory support.
The initial cases, reported earlier this week, involved individuals with no direct connection, raising concerns about possible community transmission. This has led to the immediate isolation and monitoring of nearly 100 individuals identified as being at high risk of exposure. Health officials are meticulously tracing contacts and implementing stringent infection control protocols.
Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus, meaning it originates in animals and can be transmitted to humans. Fruit bats are considered the natural reservoir for the virus. Transmission occurs through direct contact with infected animals, contaminated food, or person-to-person contact.
Symptoms of Nipah virus infection initially resemble influenza, including fever, headache, muscle pain, and fatigue. However, the illness can rapidly progress to encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and acute respiratory distress syndrome. There is currently no specific treatment or vaccine available for Nipah virus, and clinical management focuses on supportive care.
The World Health Organization (WHO) is closely monitoring the situation in West Bengal and is providing technical assistance to local health authorities. Public health experts are urging vigilance and adherence to recommended hygiene practices to minimize the risk of infection. These include avoiding close contact with sick individuals, practicing frequent handwashing, and avoiding consumption of fruits potentially contaminated by bat saliva.
