Nipah Virus Endemic in Kerala and West Bengal, Says Dr Narendra Kumar Arora
Nipah virus in India Dr Narendra Kumar Arora, President of AIIMS Bilaspur and Chairman of India’s COVID-19 Working Group at the National Technical Advisory Group, has stated that Kerala and West Bengal are endemic to the Nipah virus.
Speaking in an exclusive interview with ANI, Dr Arora said that the current Nipah virus outbreak in West Bengal first came to light among five healthcare workers. These cases emerged after the death of a person from an illness that initially remained unidentified.
Health authorities have now started a wider investigation. Officials are tracking 100 to 200 people who may have come in contact with infected individuals.
Nipah Virus Has High Fatality Rate
Dr Arora said that the Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease and gets transmitted from animals to humans. He said the virus is highly contagious and has a high mortality rate — between 40 and 75 percent.
Patients usually suffer from encephalitis, inflammation of the brain, or severe respiratory illness, he said. Both can be lethal if not treated quickly.
He also noted that Nipah cases continue to emerge regularly another country like Bangladesh.
No Vaccine Available Yet
Dr Arora confirmed that no vaccine is currently available to prevent Nipah virus infection. Doctors rely on monoclonal antibodies to treat patients once doctors confirm the infection.
He stressed that doctors must administer these antibodies as early as possible to improve survival chances.
Limited Supply of Treatment
Dr Arora also noted one significant problem. Monoclonal antibodies are in short supply worldwide. But he added that India has also taken important measures to ensure that these medicines are not found lacking in the country itself.
He hoped that India can soon have enough stocks to handle future cases.
Preventive Measures Are Crucial
Dr Arora also appealed to take preventive measures. He recommended curbing human and animal exposure to fruit bats, which are natural hosts of the virus.
He reiterated that awareness and being cautious is the only ways to prevent Nipah virus.
Nipah Virus: Symptoms, Outbreaks in India, and Key Facts
Nipah virus is a severe zoonotic disease transmitted from animals to people. It can also be transmitted among people through direct contact. Health experts say Nipah is among the most dangerous viruses, with a mortality rate of 33 to 75 percent and no vaccine or cure.
India has seen numerous Nipah virus outbreaks in recent years that have triggered public concern.
What Is the Nipah Virus?
The Nipah virus belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family. Fruit bats, also known as flying foxes, act as the natural carriers of the virus. Humans usually get infected through contaminated food, infected animals, or close contact with an infected person.
Once infection occurs, the virus can affect the brain and respiratory system.
Nipah Virus Symptoms
Nipah virus symptoms often appear within 5 to 14 days after exposure. Early signs may look mild but can worsen quickly.
Common Symptoms:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Vomiting
- Sore throat
Severe Symptoms:
- Dizziness
- Confusion
- Breathing difficulty
- Seizures
- Loss of consciousness
In serious cases, the infection can lead to encephalitis (brain inflammation) and death.
Nipah Virus Outbreak in India
India has witnessed multiple Nipah virus outbreaks, mainly in Kerala.
Major Nipah Virus Outbreaks in India:
- 2018 – Kerala: First major outbreak with high mortality
- 2019 – Kerala: Isolated confirmed case
- 2021 – Kerala: One fatal case reported
- 2023–2024 – Kerala: New cases detected, rapid containment measures taken
Health authorities responded quickly by isolating patients, tracing contacts, and restricting movement in affected areas.
Current Nipah Virus Situation in India
At present, India does not face a nationwide Nipah virus outbreak. However, health departments remain on high alert. Surveillance continues, especially in regions with previous cases.
Doctors advise early reporting of symptoms to prevent community spread.
How Does Nipah Virus Spread?
The Nipah virus spreads through:
- Consumption of food contaminated by bat saliva or urine
- Direct contact with infected animals
- Close contact with infected humans
- Exposure to bodily fluids of patients
The virus does not spread through air over long distances.
Prevention and Safety Measures
There is no approved vaccine for Nipah virus yet. Prevention remains the most effective protection.
Safety Tips:
- Avoid eating partially eaten fruits
- Do not consume raw date palm sap
- Maintain hygiene while caring for patients
- Use protective gear in healthcare settings
- Follow government health advisories
Early detection and isolation reduce the risk of further spread.
Conclusion
The Nipah virus in India remains a serious health concern, especially during reported outbreaks. Awareness of Nipah virus symptoms and quick medical response can save lives. Continuous monitoring and public cooperation play a key role in preventing future outbreaks.
Health experts urge people not to panic but to stay informed and cautious.
