Nipah in West Bengal: Health Ministry says two confirmed cases so far; 196 contacts tested negative

India’s Union Health Ministry has said the Nipah virus situation in West Bengal is under control, reporting only two confirmed cases from December 2025 to date and warning against unverified case counts circulating in sections of the media. The update comes amid heightened traveller concern after some countries began screening passengers linked to West Bengal.

Contacts traced, monitored and tested

According to the ministry’s statement, 196 contacts linked to the confirmed cases have been identified, traced, monitored and tested. The ministry said all traced contacts were asymptomatic and tested negative for Nipah Virus Disease, adding that no additional cases have been detected so far.

Officials have stressed that surveillance and containment protocols are being followed through coordination between central and state agencies, including field investigations and laboratory support, to ensure quick detection if new cases emerge.

Why Nipah triggers fast escalation

Nipah is closely watched because it can cause severe disease and has potential for human-to-human transmission in certain settings, especially where infection control measures are weak. That is why health authorities typically emphasise rapid contact tracing, strict hospital precautions and verified public communication to reduce panic and improve compliance.

Public guidance (practical, not panic)

• Follow official updates from NCDC/state health departments rather than rumours or speculative counts
• If you are a listed contact, comply with monitoring/testing schedules and isolation guidance
• Healthcare facilities should reinforce infection prevention and control, especially for respiratory and neurological symptom cases

Health authorities said monitoring continues and urged the public to stay calm and depend on verified information.