Five healthcare workers in India’s West Bengal have been confirmed infected with the Nipah virus, prompting airport screenings in Thailand and Nepal. No deaths or cross-border transmissions have been reported, though 100 close contacts remain quarantined.
Immediate Action & Core Facts
Thailand and Nepal have begun screening travelers arriving from West Bengal after India reported five confirmed Nipah virus cases among healthcare workers. The outbreak, first detected in mid-January, has led to the quarantine of 100 individuals in Kolkata, with no reported deaths or cross-border spread.
Deeper Dive & Context
Transmission and Symptoms
The Nipah virus, transmitted through fruit bats and contaminated food, can cause severe respiratory illness and encephalitis. Human-to-human transmission occurs via close contact with bodily fluids. Symptoms range from flu-like illness to fatal brain inflammation, with no approved vaccines or treatments available.
Global Response
Thailand is screening passengers at three airports receiving flights from West Bengal, while Nepal has implemented checks at Kathmandu airport and land borders. India’s health ministry reports 196 contacts tested negative, and local authorities emphasize no long-term risk to Hong Kong’s Bengali community.
Historical Context
The first Nipah outbreak occurred in Malaysia in 1998, killing over 100 people. The virus, named after the Malaysian village where it was discovered, remains a WHO priority due to its epidemic potential.
Community and Travel Impact
Hong Kong’s Bengali community leader Vishal Melwani advises postponing non-essential trips but dismisses long-term risks. The outbreak has not yet disrupted travel significantly, though precautionary measures are in place.