Expert Gives Verdict On Risk Of ‘Global Spread’ Of Nipah Virus After Outbreak
Indian health officials are working to contain two confirmed Nipah virus cases in West Bengal. Neighboring countries have responded by enhancing airport screenings and surveillance due to concerns over this pathogen, which the WHO prioritizes for its epidemic potential.
India’s health ministry has identified and tested 196 contacts linked to the infections, all of whom are asymptomatic and have tested negative. The two patients are healthcare workers currently receiving hospital treatment.
The confirmation of these cases, initially detected in late December, has prompted several Asian nations to increase border precautions. Countries including Thailand, Malaysia, and Pakistan have implemented stricter screening measures for arrivals from India.
International health experts assess the global spread risk as currently limited. UK specialists note that while Nipah is a severe infection with a high fatality rate, its person-to-person transmissibility is low, reducing the threat of a widespread pandemic.
The virus is zoonotic, primarily carried by fruit bats, and spreads to humans through contaminated food or drink. Human infection ranges from asymptomatic to severe encephalitis and respiratory illness, with a reported case fatality rate between 40% and 75%.
There is no specific antiviral treatment or widely available vaccine; care focuses on managing severe symptoms. The at-risk groups are primarily close contacts and healthcare workers handling cases, not the general public.
This outbreak has renewed focus on containment capabilities and the challenges of diseases with long incubation periods. The response underscores continued global vigilance regarding emerging infections in the post-pandemic era.
