Are Two Nurses in Bengal Critical After Nipah Virus Infection?
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Synopsis
The recent outbreak of the Nipah virus in West Bengal has left two nurses in critical condition, igniting fears and prompting extensive contact tracing. With national health authorities mobilized, the urgency of the situation demands attention as the community braces for further developments.
Key Takeaways
- Two nurses in West Bengal are critically ill due to Nipah virus.
- Extensive contact tracing has been initiated.
- Health authorities are mobilizing resources for containment measures.
- The community is urged to remain vigilant and informed.
- Supportive treatment is currently the focus, as no vaccine is available.
Kolkata, Jan 14 (NationPress) Two nurses from Barasat, located in the North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal, are currently in a coma and facing severe health challenges after testing positive for the Nipah virus, as confirmed by hospital sources on Wednesday.
The Glasgow Coma Scale (GCS) scores for both individuals indicate alarming levels, with scores for eye opening, verbal response, and motor response falling below five. The female nurse's samples have been verified as positive for Nipah by the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune, while the male nurse, on ventilator support, is expected to receive similar confirmation.
Approximately 65 individuals who came into contact with these nurses have been identified and placed in isolation. The nurses were residing as paying guests in Hridaypur, Barasat. Among those in close proximity, two individuals living with the male nurse and one with the female nurse have exhibited fever symptoms and are under medical observation.
Individuals exposed to the patients—including the ambulance driver who transported them to Burdwan Medical College and Hospital, medical staff involved in their care, and others present during the incidents—have undergone screening and received preventive measures.
The Centre has initiated standard protocols for surveillance, sample collection, and bed readiness. A collaborative team of experts from both state and central health departments has visited the private hospital in Barasat, where the nurses are being treated. Samples from 14 contacts have been sent to AIIMS Kalyani for testing, with additional samples collected from Katwa and Burdwan Medical College Hospitals.
Reports indicate that a female nurse from Katwa is also critically ill and has entered a coma. Additionally, an RMO from the same facility is showing similar symptoms and is receiving treatment, with his blood samples sent for testing. So far, at least 23 hospital staff members have been quarantined, a figure that may continue to increase.
The initial identification of the two Nipah cases occurred on Sunday at the Virus Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (VRDL) at ICMR-AIIMS Kalyani. Both nurses are affiliated with a Barasat hospital and are currently admitted in the ICU of a private healthcare facility.
A national joint outbreak response team has been deployed to support the state government in containment and public health strategies. This team comprises experts from the All India Institute of Health and Public Hygiene, Kolkata; NIV, Pune; National Institute of Epidemiology, Chennai; AIIMS Kalyani; and the Department of Wildlife under the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
Union Health and Family Welfare Minister J.P. Nadda has pledged complete assistance from the Centre. He has communicated with West Bengal Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee, emphasizing the Union government’s commitment to provide all necessary support, as stated by the health ministry.
Point of View
I believe it is vital to highlight the seriousness of the Nipah virus outbreak in West Bengal. This situation underscores the need for immediate public health interventions and community awareness. Our commitment is to keep the public informed while emphasizing the importance of vigilance in health matters.
NationPress
14/01/2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the Nipah virus?
The Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus that can cause severe disease in both animals and humans, leading to symptoms such as encephalitis and respiratory issues.
How is Nipah virus transmitted?
Nipah virus can be transmitted through direct contact with infected bats, pigs, or contaminated food, as well as through person-to-person contact.
What are the symptoms of Nipah virus infection?
Symptoms may include fever, headache, dizziness, and symptoms of severe respiratory illness or encephalitis.
Is there a vaccine for Nipah virus?
Currently, there is no specific vaccine for Nipah virus, and treatment primarily focuses on supportive care.
What measures are being taken to control the outbreak?
Health authorities are conducting contact tracing, quarantine, and implementing surveillance measures to contain the outbreak.
