Five Nipah virus cases confirmed in West Bengal, India

Authorities in West Bengal, India have confirmed five cases of Nipah virus, including infections among doctors and nurses, local media reported. One patient’s condition is reportedly critical.

According to international news agencies, affected individuals are receiving treatment in Kolkata and nearby hospitals, while approximately 100 people have been placed under precautionary home quarantine. The health department has intensified monitoring to contain the situation.

The World Health Organization (WHO) classifies Nipah virus as a high-risk pathogen. Experts note that the virus is primarily transmitted from bats to humans, often through contaminated fruits. Currently, no vaccine or specific treatment exists for the infection.

The U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) warns that early symptoms of Nipah virus, such as fever, headache, and weakness, are nonspecific, making timely diagnosis challenging. The virus has an incubation period ranging from 4 to 21 days.

Health authorities have urged residents to take precautionary measures and report any symptoms immediately to prevent further spread.