Nipah Virus In India: Key Things To Know About Disease, and How To Stay Safe

The recent flurry of messages circulating about the presence of cases of Nipah virus in India, especially West Bengal, have already caused concern. Contrary to perceptions, official figures show a much more limited occurrence. The Union Health Ministry and National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC), reported that only two cases of Nipah Virus Disease (NiVD) had been identified in the state since December 2025. Once identified, procedures to control the spread followed immediately.

Nipah virus is a serious disease yet is a rare one. Rated as a priority pathogen by the World Health Organisation (WHO) due to its very high mortality rate and propensity for outbreaks, the disease has no existing vaccine or specific antiviral medication. Despite limited case numbers, the health department emphasised the importance of early diagnosis and precautionary actions.

What is Nipah Virus?

It's an infection that originates in animals called zoonotic. Its initial report was when an outbreak occurred in Malaysia in 1998 but it has been recorded sporadically intermittently in certain regions of South and Southeast Asia in the few years since. Bats are believed to be the natural hosts and the disease that is caused by infection is termed Nipah Virus Disease.

How is Nipah Virus Spread?

Transmission takes place either directly or indirectly from infected animals, contaminated food and infected persons. Infected fruits may contain fruit bats saliva and urine (its contents are also infectious). Direct contact with bodily secretions of an infected person can result in transmission. It has been seen to transmit among humans primarily in hospitals and households.

Consequently, some countries in Asia have heightened monitoring at airports and borders.

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Nipah Virus Symptoms

Initial signs may resemble any other normal viral infection such as fever, aches and pains, vomiting etc. With disease progression, breathing difficulties, confusion, seizures or encephalitis (brain inflammation) may be evident.

The incubation period ranges from 4-14 days, with some reports of longer durations. As there is no specific treatment, supportive therapy is employed in practice.

How Do You Protect Myself from Nipah Virus in India?

The following directions issued by the Ministry of Health for prevention should be followed diligently:

Follow these essential precautions to prevent Nipah Virus infection. Stay alert, stay informed, and follow advisories issued by local health authorities.#NipahVirus #PublicHealth #HealthForAll pic.twitter.com/xvZNcHx63y

— Ministry of Health (@MoHFW_INDIA) January 27, 2026

Do’s During a Nipah Virus Alert

• Wash fruits/ vegetables with water before eating
• Boil or chlorinate drinking water
• Practice proper hand hygiene with soap and water
• Keep animal feed covered and away from bats or rodents
• Wear mask

Don’ts to Avoid Nipah Virus

• Do not take or eat dropped or partially eaten fruits
• Avoid raw date palm sap or open liquids
• Stay away from affected/ infected animals, bat inhabited places and infected persons/ people's bodily fluids

While Nipah virus sounds alarming, health officials emphasise that the current situation in India is under control. Staying informed, avoiding misinformation, and following basic hygiene and food safety practices remain the most effective ways to protect yourself and others.

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Image Courtesy: Freepik