Summary
India is dealing with an outbreak of the Nipah virus in West Bengal, with five confirmed cases so far. The virus is carried by fruit bats and currently has no specific treatment or vaccine.
Key Facts
- The Nipah virus outbreak is in the eastern Indian state of West Bengal.
- Five people are confirmed infected, and approximately 100 people are in quarantine.
- The virus started spreading in a private hospital in the city of Barasat.
- Three of the infected people are medical professionals treating patients.
- Nipah is a serious virus originating from fruit bats and can infect animals and humans.
- There are no specific treatments or vaccines available for Nipah virus.
- Symptoms include cough, fever, headache, and can develop into severe brain inflammation.
- The Nipah virus has a high mortality rate, with 40-75% of cases potentially resulting in death.
