Medical Stethoscope on hospital file
Early symptoms often resemble common flu-like illnesses, which can delay diagnosis and increase the risk of rapid progression to encephalitis, seizures or coma. Pexels

A recent outbreak of Nipah virus in eastern India has renewed concern among health authorities, as confirmed cases and close contacts continue to be monitored. Although the virus does not spread as easily as COVID-19, doctors warn that it carries a far higher risk of severe illness and death once infection occurs.

Health officials in West Bengal confirmed several cases in January, including infections among healthcare workers. Hospitals have introduced quarantine measures and strengthened infection control protocols while tracing dozens of people who may have been exposed. Authorities say the outbreak remains geographically limited, but its severity has prompted renewed attention to how Nipah presents and why early symptoms are often missed.

Medical specialists caution that the danger of Nipah lies in its high fatality rate, and in how easily early symptoms can be mistaken for common illnesses, delaying diagnosis and isolation.

What Is the Nipah Virus?

Nipah virus is a zoonotic infection, meaning it spreads from animals to humans. It is most commonly carried by fruit bats and has also been linked to pigs in earlier outbreaks. Humans can become infected through contact with infected animals, consumption of food contaminated by bats, or close contact with infected people through bodily fluids.

The World Health Organization classifies Nipah as a priority pathogen because of its epidemic potential and high mortality rate. Past outbreaks in South and South East Asia have recorded fatality rates ranging from around 40 per cent to as high as 75 per cent.

There is currently no approved vaccine or targeted antiviral treatment for Nipah virus infection. Care focuses on managing symptoms and supporting vital functions in hospital, particularly for patients who develop complications.

Early Symptoms Doctors Say are Often Overlooked

Doctors say the earliest signs of Nipah infection frequently resemble influenza or other common viral illnesses. These can include fever, headache, muscle pain, sore throat, vomiting and general fatigue. Some patients also develop cough or shortness of breath.

Because these symptoms are non-specific, they can be mistaken for routine seasonal infections, especially in the early stages.

How the Illness Can Escalate

In more serious cases, Nipah can progress rapidly beyond flu-like symptoms. The virus is known to cause inflammation of the brain, a condition called encephalitis. When this occurs, patients may develop confusion, drowsiness, disorientation or changes in consciousness.

Seizures and coma have been reported within a short period after neurological symptoms appear. Doctors say this rapid progression is a defining feature of severe Nipah infection and is closely linked to its high fatality rate and risk of long-term neurological damage.

Transmission Risks and Public Health Response

Person-to-person transmission has been documented, particularly in healthcare and caregiving environments where close physical contact occurs. Health authorities advise avoiding raw date palm sap and fruit that may have been contaminated by bats, maintaining strict hand hygiene, and using protective equipment when caring for suspected cases.

In West Bengal, around 100 people identified as close contacts have been quarantined, with repeated testing underway to detect delayed symptoms. One hospital in Barasat, near Kolkata, has been central to the response, with enhanced infection control measures in place.

With no vaccine available and limited treatment options, early recognition of symptoms, rapid isolation and strict hygiene practices remain the most effective ways to limit serious outcomes.

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