Health officials across Asia are implementing enhanced screening measures following the confirmation of two Nipah virus infections in India’s West Bengal state. The cases, reported since December, have prompted neighboring nations to bolster surveillance at international points of entry.
The Nipah virus is a zoonotic pathogen, meaning it can transfer from animals to humans. Primary carriers include fruit bats and pigs, with transmission occurring through direct contact or exposure to contaminated secretions. Once contracted, the virus has an incubation period ranging from four to fourteen days.
Initial symptoms often resemble severe influenza, including high fever, vomiting, and respiratory distress. These can rapidly progress to pneumonia or, in the most critical instances, encephalitis—a dangerous swelling of the brain. Neurological complications such as disorientation, drowsiness, and convulsions may follow.
The disease presents a significant public health challenge due to its high contagion rate between humans and the absence of an approved vaccine. Historical fatality rates in outbreaks have varied between 40% and 75%.
Indian health authorities have stated that the recent infections were contained swiftly. Nearly 200 individuals identified as close contacts were tested, with no further cases detected. Enhanced surveillance and field investigations are reportedly ongoing.
Despite these assurances, several countries have initiated precautionary steps. Thailand, Vietnam, and Nepal are among those conducting additional health screenings for travelers arriving from affected regions. Measures include temperature checks and health questionnaires.
The Nipah virus was first identified in Malaysia in 1998. Since then, sporadic outbreaks have been recorded almost annually in parts of Asia, including Bangladesh, the Philippines, and India. The virus has been historically linked to the consumption of raw date palm sap, which can be contaminated by bat secretions.
The current detection in West Bengal marks the first reported cases in that region in nearly two decades. Health ministries emphasize that the situation is being closely monitored and that standard public health protocols remain in force.