WHO's Initial Assessment
The World Health Organization (WHO) initially assessed the risk of the Nipah virus's spread as low. In their first statements, the WHO emphasized the absence
of a need for travel or trade restrictions, which were in place at the time. Furthermore, the organization indicated that there was no existing evidence of human-to-human transmission. This initial stance, based on the information available at the time, aimed to provide the public with a clear understanding of the situation and the measures being put in place. These early statements from the WHO helped to set the tone for the response and reassured the public about the steps being taken by health authorities. Despite the rare occurrence of the virus, its severity necessitated a thorough approach to containment and management, starting with a comprehensive risk assessment.
Cases and Confirmation
Two nurses in the North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal were confirmed as Nipah virus cases. Health officials observed improvements in their condition after receiving treatment. One male nurse was discharged, demonstrating positive progress. The other, a female nurse, was taken off ventilator support and remained under observation as a precaution, indicating that they were moving in the right direction. Before the cases, the WHO declared that the virus posed a low risk of spreading. This declaration was made to help prevent the spread of the virus while they monitored the spread of the disease. The report of the cases in West Bengal marked the third occurrence of the virus in the state since 1998.
How Nipah Spreads
Nipah virus transmission from bats to humans usually occurs through close contact with infected animals or through the consumption of contaminated food. The symptoms, which include fever, muscle pain, and headaches, frequently make early detection a challenge. Severe cases of infection can lead to swelling of the brain, causing encephalitis. The fatality rate varies, but it is known to be high, ranging between 40% and 75%. Because of its severity, early detection and containment strategies are critical for managing outbreaks and reducing the risk of transmission. The health officials are tracking around 190 contacts, with no reported cases of illness.
WHO's Current Stance
The World Health Organization (WHO) now considers the cases linked to the outbreak as rare but serious. The WHO's Director, Tedros Adhanom Ghebreyesus, indicated the cases were limited to India, with no other country reporting similar occurrences. This statement underscores the importance of the situation's management within India, particularly given the absence of global spread. He further emphasized the implementation of surveillance and testing protocols, along with prevention and control measures in healthcare settings. Informing the public on self-protection methods is also a priority.
Ongoing Measures and Progress
In late December 2025, the initial symptoms appeared in the cases and led to hospitalization in early January 2026. As of January 21, the second patient showed signs of recovery, while the first patient required critical care. Ghebreyesus emphasized surveillance, testing, and prevention efforts within healthcare environments. These include measures to limit further cases and protect healthcare workers and the general population. The WHO is working closely with Indian health authorities to manage the outbreak and prevent further spread, while providing resources and guidance to contain the outbreak.
