Suspected Nipah Cases in West Bengal Prompt Rapid Central Health Response

The central government has sent a national emergency response team to West Bengal after two suspected Nipah virus cases were reported at AIIMS Kalyani on January 11, 2026. The team has been deployed to assess the situation on the ground and support efforts to prevent any possible spread.

Officials said the suspected cases were identified during routine testing at the Virus Research and Diagnostic Laboratory at AIIMS Kalyani. After the cases came to light, the Union Ministry of Health and Family Welfare quickly coordinated with the West Bengal government and dispatched a National Joint Outbreak Response Team to the state.

The team includes experts from central health bodies and is working closely with state health officials. Its job is to monitor patients, strengthen contact tracing, review hospital preparedness and ensure that infection control measures are strictly adhered to.

A vigil is also kept in nearby areas to detect any unusual symptoms at an early stage.

Officials have said the suspected cases are being closely monitored and investigated and there is no need to panic at this stage.

The state health department has asked hospitals to remain alert and follow all safety protocols. People have also been advised to rely on official updates for information and avoid spreading rumours.

Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease that can spread from animals to humans and, in rare cases, between people. The infection can lead to serious illness, including fever, breathing problems, and inflammation of the brain (encephalitis). In severe cases, it can be life-threatening, which is why health authorities treat even suspected cases with high caution.

Source: NDTV, AIR