The Union Health Ministry reviewed the recent Nipah virus cases reported in West Bengal and stressed that the situation remains under control.
The ministry informed that so far, only two confirmed cases of Nipah Virus have been reported from West Bengal from December last year till date. "A total of 196 contacts linked to the confirmed cases have been identified, traced, monitored, and tested. All traced contacts have been found asymptomatic and have tested negative for Nipah Virus Disease," the ministry said in a statement.
Urging the public to stay calm and rely only on verified information, the ministry said speculative and incorrect figures regarding Nipah Virus Disease (NiVD) cases are being circulated in certain sections of the media.
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"No additional Nipah Virus Disease cases have been detected so far," the ministry emphasised, adding that the situation is under constant monitoring.
Regarding the public health measures, the ministry said enhanced surveillance, laboratory testing, and field investigations were undertaken through coordinated efforts of central and state health agencies, which ensured the timely containment of the cases.
What is Nipah?
Nipah virus infection is a zoonotic illness that is transmitted to people from animals. It causes a range of illnesses from asymptomatic infection to fatal encephalitis.
- It spreads through direct contact with infected animals.
- Close contact with the body fluids of an infected person.
How to avoid risk?
Caregivers and healthcare providers are at a higher risk. Therefore, take necessary steps to reduce the spread:
- Wash your hands regularly with soap and water
- Avoid areas where bats roost
- Avoid touching anything that could be soiled by bats
- Check fruits before eating
- Avoid contact with the blood or body fluids of someone with Nipah
For more information, consult a health expert.