In January 2026, a Nipah virus (NiV) infection was confirmed in West Bengal. Reports indicate this was the third outbreak of NiV in the state. The previous outbreaks occurred in Siliguri in 2001 and Nadia in 2007.
Nipah virus infection is a disease that spreads from animals to humans. It can be transmitted through infected animals like bats or through food tainted with the urine, saliva, or droppings of these animals. The virus can also spread from person to person through close contact with an infected individual. Fruit bats or flying foxes (Pteropus species) are the main hosts of the virus.
Symptoms:
-Fever
-Headache
-Muscle ache
-Vomiting
-Sore throat
-Drowsiness
-Dizziness
-Altered consciousness
Public Health Guidelines Issued by the Government
To lower the risk of bat-to-human transmission, steps should be taken to keep bats away from date palm sap and other fresh food products.
Avoid close, unprotected physical contact with NiV-infected individuals.
Wash your hands regularly after caring for or visiting sick people.
MBH/AB