Expert Gives Verdict On Risk Of ‘Global Spread’ Of Nipah Virus After Outbreak

Indian health officials are working to contain two confirmed cases of Nipah virus in West Bengal, prompting heightened concern across the region. The World Health Organisation lists Nipah as a priority pathogen because of its potential to cause severe outbreaks.

India’s health ministry said nearly 200 people who had contact with the infected individuals were identified, traced, and tested, with all results coming back negative. Both patients are healthcare workers currently receiving treatment in hospital.

The discovery of the cases has led several neighbouring countries to increase screening of travellers arriving from India. Nations including Thailand, Malaysia, and Pakistan have tightened airport surveillance as a precautionary measure.

Experts in the UK say the likelihood of widespread international transmission remains low. Infectious disease specialists note that Nipah spreads poorly between people, though the illness itself is often serious and potentially fatal.

UK health authorities have emphasized awareness rather than alarm. While no cases have ever been detected in Britain, officials warn that Nipah has a high death rate and can cause long-term neurological complications in survivors.

Nipah is a zoonotic virus carried by fruit bats and can spread to humans through contaminated food or close contact. Symptoms may range from mild flu-like illness to severe brain inflammation, with incubation periods sometimes lasting weeks.

There is no proven cure for Nipah, and treatment focuses on supportive care. While sustained human transmission is rare, the latest cases highlight the need for rapid response, strict infection control, and vigilance in preventing further spread.