By Afiur
January 28, 2026
Two cases of the Nipah virus have been reported in West Bengal since December, and both were linked to healthcare workers.
Officials identified and monitored 196 people who came in contact with them, and all tested negative, bringing some relief to health authorities.
Nipah is a zoonotic infection that can pass from animals such as fruit bats and pigs to humans, as noted by the WHO.
With a death rate estimated between 40 and 75 per cent and no targeted cure, it continues to pose a major public health risk.
Person-to-person spread has been documented, particularly in hospital settings, making strict safety protocols essential.
The infection can be transmitted through contaminated food, close personal contact, and exposure to bodily fluids.
Early symptoms include fever and headaches, which may later worsen into breathing problems, disorientation, or serious neurological issues.
The incubation window usually lasts between four and 14 days, with symptoms differing from person to person depending on cases.
As there is no vaccine at present, prevention depends largely on awareness and limiting exposure.
Doctors advise maintaining food hygiene, avoiding sick animals, following strict cleanliness, and using gloves during animal handling or culling.