Summary
Indian officials announced that they have contained a recent Nipah virus outbreak in West Bengal by confirming two cases and monitoring contacts. Neighboring countries have increased health screenings for travelers from India to prevent further spread. The Nipah virus is deadly and spread through animals and close human contact.
Key Facts
- India confirmed two cases of the Nipah virus in West Bengal and stated the outbreak is contained.
- The Indian health ministry tracked and tested 196 people connected to these cases, all tested negative.
- The Nipah virus is transmitted through fruit bats, pigs, and close human contact and has a high death rate.
- Neighboring Asian countries introduced health checks at airports and borders for travelers arriving from India.
- Key actions by these countries include temperature checks and health declarations at entry points.
- The virus was first noted in humans in 1998 in Malaysia and Singapore from infected pigs, causing over 100 deaths.
- Nipah has caused outbreaks in countries like Bangladesh, the Philippines, and India, especially in Kerala since 2018.
