Nipah virus in India: Five cases in West Bengal

By Admin

24 Jan, 2026

Introduction
India is once again on alert as the Nipah virus (NiV), a highly infectious zoonotic disease, has resurfaced in the eastern state of West Bengal. As of January 23, state health authorities have confirmed that the total number of Nipah virus cases has increased to five. The situation is being closely monitored, with strict containment and surveillance measures in place to prevent further spread.

Current Situation in West Bengal
The outbreak is centred near the state capital, Kolkata, with initial cases reported from a private hospital in Barasat. The first two confirmed infections involved a male and a female nurse working at the facility. According to the West Bengal health department, the male nurse’s condition is improving, while the female patient remains in a very critical state and is currently being treated in the Intensive Coronary Care Unit (ICCU).

The three most recent cases include a doctor, a nurse, and a healthcare worker, all linked to the same private hospital. This has raised concerns about hospital-based transmission, prompting authorities to intensify infection control measures.

Patient Transfer and Medical Response
To ensure specialised care and strict isolation, all newly identified patients have been transferred to the Infectious Diseases Hospital in Beleghata, eastern Kolkata. State health officials have also quarantined nearly 100 individuals who were in close contact with the infected patients. These contacts are under continuous medical observation to detect any early symptoms of infection.

Understanding Nipah Virus Transmission
Nipah virus is a bat-borne disease that can spread to humans through infected animals such as fruit bats or pigs. Transmission can also occur through consumption of contaminated food or, in rare cases, through close contact with infected individuals. Human-to-human transmission, particularly in healthcare settings, has been documented during previous outbreaks, making strict hospital protocols essential.

Nipah Virus History in India and Globally
Since its first identification in 1998, Nipah virus outbreaks have been reported in several countries, including Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, the Philippines, and Singapore. In India, Nipah infections have occurred multiple times since 2001, with earlier outbreaks reported in West Bengal in 2001 and 2007.

More recently, Kerala has experienced recurring Nipah outbreaks since 2018. Over the past several years, Kerala has reported a total of nine outbreaks, highlighting the persistent risk posed by the virus in certain regions of the country.

Conclusion
The latest Nipah virus cases in West Bengal underscore the importance of rapid detection, effective contact tracing, and strict infection control practices, especially within healthcare facilities. With authorities actively monitoring the situation and enforcing quarantine measures, timely public cooperation and awareness remain critical to preventing further transmission.

As India continues to face periodic Nipah outbreaks, strengthening surveillance systems and public health preparedness will be essential to manage and contain future incidents effectively.