Nipah in West Bengal: Centre says no new cases; 2 confirmed so far and 196 contacts traced and tested

The Union Health Ministry on 27 January 2026 said the Nipah virus situation in West Bengal remains under control and urged the public to avoid speculation amid circulating reports with conflicting numbers. The ministry stated that only two confirmed Nipah cases have been reported so far, and that no additional cases have been detected, even as health agencies continue close monitoring.

Contact tracing and testing update

Providing a detailed status update, the ministry said 196 contacts linked to the confirmed cases have been identified, traced, monitored and tested. It added that all traced contacts were found asymptomatic and tested negative for Nipah virus disease, an outcome that authorities described as reassuring for containment efforts.

Government response measures

Officials said enhanced surveillance, laboratory testing and field investigations were undertaken through coordinated efforts between central and state health agencies. The emphasis, the ministry said, has been on fast containment and verified public communication to reduce panic and prevent misinformation.

What Nipah is and how it spreads

Nipah virus infection is a zoonotic illness, meaning it can spread from animals to humans, and it can also spread through close contact with body fluids of an infected person. The disease can range from asymptomatic infection to severe illness including fatal encephalitis, which is why health authorities treat even small clusters as a serious public-health event.

Precautions advised

• Wash hands regularly with soap and water.
• Avoid touching items that could be contaminated by bats and avoid areas where bats roost.
• Check fruits carefully before eating and avoid consumption of potentially contaminated produce.
• Avoid direct contact with the blood or body fluids of a person suspected to have Nipah.

The health ministry said speculative and incorrect figures are being circulated, and asked the public to rely on verified information.

What to watch next

Health authorities are expected to continue active surveillance and monitoring of contacts, while hospitals remain alert for symptoms consistent with Nipah. For the public, the key message is to follow hygiene guidance, avoid rumours, and seek medical advice promptly if symptoms such as fever or respiratory distress emerge after potential exposure.