New cases of Nipah virus (NiV) have emerged in West Bengal, India, raising concerns in Asian countries. Five people have been confirmed infected in the state so far, including a doctor and a nurse. In response, countries like Thailand, Nepal, and Taiwan have mandated COVID-style thermal screening and health checks for passengers at their international airports.

Nipah Virus Outbreak in West Bengal: New cases of Nipah virus have emerged in West Bengal, India, raising concerns in Asian countries. Five people have been confirmed infected in the state so far, including a doctor and a nurse. In response, countries like Thailand, Nepal, and Taiwan have mandated COVID-style thermal screening and health checks for passengers at their international airports. Also

Internationally, stricter regulations

Countries with direct flight connections to West Bengal have taken precautionary measures:

• Thailand: 'Health Beware Card' and symptom check have been introduced for passengers arriving from Bengal at Bangkok's Suvarnabhumi and Phuket airports.
• Nepal: Special 'health desks' have been set up at the entry points of Kathmandu's Tribhuvan International Airport and the India-Nepal border.
• Taiwan: Taiwanese health authorities have proposed listing Nipah as a 'Category 5' dangerous infectious disease.

Current situation in West Bengal

The epicenter of the infection remains the town of Barasat in North 24 Parganas district. According to the health department, the virus spread to healthcare workers through a patient admitted to a private hospital. Currently, more than 100 people have been quarantined, and suspects are being monitored. The central government has also deployed a high-level team to assist the state.

Symptoms of Nipah virus

Nipah is a zoonotic virus that spreads from animals (especially fruit bats) to humans. Its mortality rate can range from 40% to 75%. Its main symptoms are:

• Initial stage: High fever, headache, muscle aches, vomiting and sore throat.
• Severe condition: Dizziness, mental confusion, difficulty breathing, and seizures.
• Final stage: The virus causes encephalitis, which can lead to coma within 24-48 hours.

Important measures to prevent

Since there is no vaccine available for this virus, caution is the best protection:

1. Do not eat fruits that have fallen on the ground or have been bitten by birds/bats.
2. Avoid drinking raw date palm juice (toddy), as it may be contaminated with bat saliva.
3. Avoid contact with sick animals, especially pigs.
4. Use mask, gloves and PPE kit while taking care of an infected person.
5. Keep washing your hands regularly with soap and water.

Experts say that although the risk to the general public is currently low, those who have travelled to affected areas should monitor their health for the next 21 days.

 PC:Latestly