WHO Says Risk of Wider Spread From India’s Nipah Virus Cases Remains Low

The World Health Organization (WHO) has said the risk of a broader outbreak linked to a recent cluster of Nipah virus infections in India remains low, offering reassurance amid heightened public health monitoring.

The assessment follows confirmation by authorities in West Bengal of two Nipah virus cases involving healthcare workers at the same hospital. According to officials, both individuals—nurses by profession—began experiencing symptoms during the final week of December 2025. Their conditions reportedly deteriorated quickly, prompting hospital admission and isolation in early January.

WHO Monitoring and Risk Assessment

In comments provided to Caixin, the WHO said that, based on currently available evidence, the likelihood of sustained community transmission or international spread is limited. Health officials cited early detection, rapid isolation, and established infection-control measures as key factors reducing the risk of further transmission.

The agency emphasized that Nipah virus typically requires close physical contact for person-to-person spread, making large-scale outbreaks less likely when containment protocols are followed promptly.

Response Measures in West Bengal

Local health authorities have initiated:

• Contact tracing for individuals who may have been exposed
• Enhanced infection-control procedures within the hospital
• Monitoring of healthcare workers and close contacts
• Public health surveillance in surrounding communities

Officials have not reported additional confirmed cases as of the latest update.

About the Nipah Virus

Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease that can spread from animals—most commonly fruit bats—to humans, and in some cases between people. Infections can cause severe illness, including acute respiratory symptoms and encephalitis, and have historically carried a high fatality rate.

While outbreaks are rare, the virus is closely watched by global health authorities due to its potential severity and the absence of a specific antiviral treatment or approved vaccine.

Global Health Context

The WHO reiterated that sporadic Nipah cases are not unusual in parts of South Asia, and that previous outbreaks have been successfully contained through standard public health measures. The organization continues to work with Indian authorities to monitor the situation and provide technical guidance as needed.

Outlook

Public health experts stress that while vigilance is essential, the current evidence does not suggest a risk of widespread transmission. Continued surveillance, transparent reporting, and adherence to infection-prevention protocols remain central to keeping the outbreak contained.