Recent confirmed cases of Nipah virus in India’s West Bengal state have prompted heightened surveillance across multiple Asian countries, as the deadly disease poses a significant public health threat. Airports in Thailand, Nepal, and Vietnam are now screening arrivals, fearing a wider outbreak of the virus, which is known for its high fatality rate and lack of a readily available vaccine.
The Virus: Transmission and Severity
Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic disease, meaning it spreads from animals to humans. Primary transmission occurs through contact with infected animals – particularly pigs and fruit bats – or their bodily fluids. The virus incubates for 4–14 days before symptoms manifest, typically starting with fever, nausea, vomiting, and respiratory distress.
In severe cases, NiV causes encephalitis (brain inflammation), leading to neurological complications such as drowsiness, seizures, and potentially fatal outcomes. The WHO classifies Nipah as a high-risk epidemic threat due to its 40–75% fatality rate – considerably higher than COVID-19. The virus is also contagious between humans through close contact.
History of Outbreaks
The virus was first identified in 1998 during an outbreak in Malaysia linked to pig farms, resulting in over 100 deaths. Since then, NiV has resurfaced nearly annually across Asia, including India, the Philippines, Singapore, and Bangladesh.
Bangladesh has been a consistent hotspot, with cases frequently linked to the harvesting of date sap, as fruit bats inhabit date palms. India recorded its first case in 2001 (also in West Bengal), and major outbreaks occurred in Kerala in 2018 (17 deaths) and 2023 (2 deaths). The latest cases in West Bengal are the first confirmed since 2007.
Current Response and Regional Concerns
Indian health authorities claim to have contained the recent outbreak, with only two cases confirmed since December. Enhanced surveillance, testing, and field investigations were implemented to prevent further spread, according to official statements.
However, neighboring countries are not taking chances. Thailand, Vietnam, and Indonesia have increased airport screening, including temperature checks and health declarations for passengers arriving from India. Myanmar has advised against nonessential travel to West Bengal, and China has reinforced disease prevention measures along its borders.
Despite regional anxieties, India has dismissed reports of a surge in cases as “speculative and incorrect.”
The absence of a vaccine combined with the virus’s high fatality rate makes Nipah a serious concern. The recent outbreaks underscore the need for continued vigilance, rapid response systems, and international collaboration to prevent widespread epidemics.
