Nipah virus scare: Testing and quarantine steps launched in West Bengal

A fresh Nipah virus scare near densely populated areas in West Bengal has revived a worrying question: Is the world facing another outbreak risk? Health officials say the virus can spread from animals to humans — and, in some cases, from person to person — and while it may start without symptoms, it can quickly escalate into severe respiratory distress, brain inflammation and coma.

Authorities moved fast after suspected cases were detected in settlements close to Kolkata. Emergency contact tracing was launched, high-risk individuals were placed under observation, and testing capacity was expanded. As part of the containment effort, 180 people were screened and 20 were quarantined as a preventive measure.

Bat and pig-linked transmission is in focus

Health officials say early assessments point to the virus being detected in areas near the state capital. Experts highlight that Nipah is a zoonotic disease and may be transmitted from animals to humans — most notably through bats and pigs. They also stress that the virus carries a risk of human-to-human spread. Fruit bats, common across India, are known to be natural carriers of the virus.

Healthcare workers among the confirmed cases

According to information reported by Press Trust of India, three new infections were confirmed during the week. The list includes a doctor, a nurse and another healthcare worker — a development that has increased concern. Reports also said test results came back positive for two nurses previously working at a private hospital in Barasat.

Officials noted that one of the nurses is in critical condition, suffering from high fever and severe respiratory symptoms. It was also reported that the nurse slipped into a coma after her condition rapidly deteriorated following intervention for a patient with acute respiratory failure. That patient reportedly died without undergoing the necessary tests.

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Silent start, sudden deterioration

Health authorities say Nipah infection can initially progress without clear symptoms. However, acute respiratory complications may appear quickly. Symptoms can include high fever, headache, muscle aches, vomiting and sore throat.

In severe cases, the virus may cause inflammation in the brain and lead to coma within 24 to 48 hours. Officials have also pointed to a reported fatality rate ranging from 40% to 75%. One of the biggest concerns, they add, is that there is currently no approved vaccine or specific treatment — meaning care is largely supportive.