India has reported two confirmed cases of Nipah virus (NiV) in West Bengal, both among health-care workers at the same hospital.
One patient has confirmed receiving intensive care, the other is recovering. Importantly, over 190 contacts have been tested and all are negative, and no new cases have been detected so far.
What is Nipah virus?
Nipah is a rare but serious disease that can spread from animals (especially fruit bats) to people, and sometimes between people through close contact.
Symptoms can range from fever and headaches to severe brain infection. There is no specific vaccine or treatment yet, but early supportive care saves lives.
WHO assesses the risk as moderate locally, and low nationally, regionally and globally.
How to reduce risk:
Wash and peel fruits
Avoid raw date palm sap
Wash hands often
Seek care early if symptoms appear
WHO is working closely with Indian authorities to monitor the situation and keep communities safe.
