Nipah virus cases emerge in India ahead of ICC T20 World Cup
MUMBAI: As the ICC Men’s T20 World Cup approaches, reports of Nipah virus cases have emerged in India, raising health concerns just weeks before the event. The tournament is scheduled to be jointly hosted by India and Sri Lanka from February 7 to March 8.
According to Indian media, at least five Nipah virus cases have been reported in West Bengal, prompting authorities to place approximately 100 individuals under quarantine as part of emergency medical measures.
The infected individuals include healthcare personnel, with two nurses from Kolkata reportedly in serious condition.
The outbreak comes at a time when international teams and large numbers of cricket fans are expected to arrive in India for the T20 World Cup.
Nipah virus is a highly dangerous zoonotic disease transmitted primarily by fruit bats. It can also spread through contaminated food and close contact with infected individuals. The virus is considered deadly, with reported fatality rates reaching up to 75 percent in some cases.
India’s Kerala state has previously reported dozens of deaths due to Nipah virus since 2018. The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified Nipah virus as a “Priority Pathogen” due to its potential to cause a global outbreak.
Authorities are monitoring the situation closely and have urged caution as the World Cup draws near.
