The Independent reports that the situation has become more urgent, with two nurses in Kolkata city in critical condition. A senior Indian health official told PTI news agency, "Both are receiving intensive care in a deep coma." The confirmed cases include two nurses, one doctor, and one medical worker, all employed at a private hospital in Barasat.

To curb the spread, state authorities have mandated approximately 100 people to self-quarantine at home, while closely monitoring 30 high-risk individuals. The local health system has also issued emergency treatment guidelines, emphasizing three key strategies: early detection, strict isolation, and rigorous clinical management. Medical personnel are required to adhere strictly to contact prevention protocols and use personal protective equipment (PPE) when attending to patients.

Confirmed Nipah virus cases in West Bengal state, eastern India. Photo: CGTN

The emergence of Nipah in India has prompted heightened alert systems in neighboring countries. On 25/1, Thailand's Public Health Ministry began rigorous screening of passengers arriving from India at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang international airports. Travelers from affected regions are issued a "Health Beware Card" to monitor for suspicious symptoms over 21 days.

Nepal's government also elevated its nationwide alert level from 22/1. Prakash Budhathoki, spokesperson for Nepal's Ministry of Health and Population, stated that surveillance has been intensified at Tribhuvan International Airport and major trade border crossings with India, particularly in Koshi province.

The World Health Organization (WHO) categorizes Nipah as a top-priority pathogen due to its pandemic potential and a mortality rate ranging from 40% to 75%. The virus, a Henipavirus, naturally resides in fruit bats (Pteropus) and can transmit to humans through contaminated food or direct contact with infected animals. "Once it has entered a community, the virus has strong human-to-human transmission capabilities through close contact," warned Doctor Neha Mishra from Manipal Hospital, India.

The disease was first identified in 1999 in Malaysia during an outbreak among pig farmers. It typically begins with flu-like symptoms such as fever, headache, muscle pain, and sore throat, rapidly progressing to dizziness, altered consciousness, and acute encephalitis. In severe cases, patients can experience seizures and deep coma within 24 to 48 hours. More concerning, about 20% of survivors endure permanent neurological sequelae, including personality changes or seizure disorders.

Currently, with no specific vaccine or antiviral treatment available, medical care is limited to supportive measures. Raising awareness and minimizing contact with the source of infection remain the primary defense for community protection.

Vietnam has not recorded any Nipah virus cases to date.

Binh Minh (According to Global Times, The Economic Times, NDTV)