By Admin 
Nipah Virus Cases Reported In West Bengal: After the confirmation of cases of Nipah virus infection in West Bengal, India, health agencies in many countries of Asia have come on alert mode. According to latest reports, five cases have been confirmed so far, while around 100 people have been kept in quarantine as a precautionary measure. All these people had come in close contact with infection patients. It is a matter of concern that many cases are being reported to be related to the spread of infection in hospitals, due to which the risk to the healthcare system has increased.
The case fatality rate of Nipah virus is considered very high, which can be around 40 to 75 percent. It is much more deadly than Covid-19. However, it is a matter of relief that at present it is not considered a severe infection. Like Covid, it is not a virus that spreads through air. Nipah infection usually spreads through contact with bats that eat infected fruits, consumption of spoiled food or very close contact with an infected person. Particularly, cases of spread due to prolonged contact with infected families and in places like hospitals have been reported.
Why are concerns about this increasing?
The incubation period of this virus is usually 5 to 14 days, although in some rare cases it can reach up to 21 days. This period is considered to be very similar to Covid-19. Due to less infection, there has been no need to take strict measures like sealing cities on a large scale, but the news of new cases from China and its surrounding countries has increased the concern of health officials, especially in view of international travel during the New Year.
Increased surveillance at airport and border
Travel screening and health monitoring has been started once again in many countries of Asia. Thailand has started screening passengers coming from West Bengal and surrounding areas at Suvarnabhumi, Don Muang and Phuket International Airport. Temperature checking and scanning of health documents is being done from January 25, 2026. According to the Disease Control Department of Thailand, passengers are getting full cooperation.
Similarly, Nepal has started strict screening at Tribhuvan International Airport and the land border with India. According to media reports, in countries like Nepal and Taiwan, thermal screening and health checks have been made mandatory for passengers coming from affected areas.
What is Nipah virus?
Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease, which spreads from animals to humans. It is spread mainly by bats and pigs that eat fruits. It is possible to get infected through contaminated food and in some cases even from person to person. WHO has placed Nipah virus in the list of priority diseases that can cause a serious public health crisis. Its initial symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain, vomiting and sore throat. In severe cases, the patient may suffer from pneumonia, unconsciousness or encephalitis, which can prove fatal. At present there is neither any proper treatment nor vaccine for it.
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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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