India Rushes to Contain New Virus Outbreak

India's Nipah virus outbreak in West Bengal has resulted in five confirmed infections, with nearly 100 individuals placed under quarantine as authorities work to contain the spread. The cases, reported in late January 2026, include initial infections among two nurses (one male and one female) at a private hospital in Barasat, near Kolkata, followed by three additional cases earlier this week.

The outbreak, the first in West Bengal in nearly two decades (since previous incidents in 2001 and 2007), has prompted swift public health responses. Local officials are conducting extensive contact tracing and testing, with high-risk contacts monitored closely.

In response to the developments in neighboring India, Thailand's Ministry of Public Health initiated enhanced screening for passengers arriving from India—particularly those from West Bengal—at major airports including Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang. Measures include issuing "Health Beware Cards" to travelers from affected areas, advising them to seek immediate medical help if symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle aches, sore throat, cough, breathing difficulties, drowsiness, confusion, or seizures appear—especially after potential exposure to bats, sick animals, or infected individuals within the prior 21 days. Reports indicate good cooperation from passengers and relevant agencies.

Similarly, Nepal has raised nationwide alertness to block potential importation of the virus. The Ministry of Health and Population has ramped up surveillance, including health screenings at Tribhuvan International Airport and key border crossings with India (particularly in Koshi Province and other points). Adequate preventive steps have been put in place, according to ministry spokesperson Prakash Budhathoki.

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nipah virus (NiV) is a priority pathogen with significant epidemic potential. It belongs to the Henipavirus genus and is primarily carried by fruit bats (Pteropus species), with spillover to humans occurring via contaminated food (such as date palm sap) or direct contact with infected bats, pigs, or people. Infections range from asymptomatic to severe acute respiratory illness or fatal encephalitis. No approved vaccines or specific antiviral treatments exist, and historical outbreaks have shown case fatality rates of 40–75%, underscoring its serious threat.