Are NIMR Teams Testing Bats for the Nipah Virus at Alipore Zoological Garden?
Synopsis
The NIMR's proactive efforts to test bats for the Nipah virus at Alipore Zoological Garden highlight a crucial public health initiative. With the recent detection of Nipah cases in West Bengal, this testing not only aims to identify potential carriers but also to ensure community safety.
Key Takeaways
The NIMR is conducting RT-PCR tests on bats to check for the Nipah virus.
Blood and swab samples have been collected for analysis.
This initiative is crucial for public health safety in West Bengal.
The testing follows recent cases of Nipah virus in the region.
Collaboration with health authorities enhances the effectiveness of the testing.
Kolkata, Jan 24 (NationPress) The National Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) has initiated random RT-PCR (Reverse Transcription Polymerase Chain Reaction) testing on bats at the Zoological Garden located in Alipore, South Kolkata, to ascertain if these creatures are potential carriers of the Nipah virus.
On Saturday, it was reported that an expert team from NIMR gathered blood and swab samples from the bats on Thursday and Friday mornings. The collection process was conducted at dawn.
As part of efforts to identify the source of Nipah, bats across the state are undergoing RT-PCR testing. Recently, several bats from the regions of Madhyamgram, Barasat, and Basirhat in the North 24 Parganas district were tested. Notably, the Alipore Zoological Garden is the sole location in Kolkata with a substantial bat population.
In a proactive measure to ease concerns regarding Nipah, samples of blood and swabs from the zoo's bats have been dispatched for RT-PCR testing. This initiative is being conducted in collaboration with the National Institute of Virology (NIV) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), alongside support from the state health department and the state forest department.
Sandeep Sundriyal, the Principal Chief Conservator of Forests and Chief Wildlife Warden, shared with reporters that obtaining permission from the forest department is essential for capturing bats. The health department had sought this permission, which was subsequently granted.
The expert team is also visiting various locations throughout the state to collect additional samples from bat populations. Zoo authorities have implemented precautionary measures; while the zoo opens to the public at 9 am, the team concluded their work prior to that time.
Officials indicated that results determining whether the bats at Alipore Zoo pose a risk will take several days. On Saturday, the expert team is scheduled to travel to Nadia district to continue collecting bat samples.
This initiative follows the identification of two confirmed cases of Nipah virus in West Bengal. Earlier this month, these cases were detected at the Virus Research and Diagnostic Laboratory (VRDL), ICMR, at AIIMS Kalyani. The affected individuals, both nurses, are currently receiving treatment at a private hospital.
Point of View
The NIMR's testing of bats for the Nipah virus is a critical measure in safeguarding public health. As the situation unfolds, it is imperative that we remain vigilant and informed about potential health risks, emphasizing the importance of scientific research and public cooperation.
NationPress
11 May 2026
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of the bat testing at Alipore Zoological Garden?
The testing aims to determine if the bats are carriers of the Nipah virus, which poses a risk to public health.
Who is conducting the bat tests?
The tests are being conducted by the National Institute of Medical Research (NIMR) in collaboration with the National Institute of Virology (NIV) and the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR).
How are the samples collected?
Samples are collected through blood and swab testing, conducted by an expert team from NIMR.
What precautions are being taken during the testing?
Precautionary measures include conducting tests before the zoo opens to the public and ensuring that all protocols are followed.
What actions are being taken following the detection of Nipah virus cases?
The testing of bats is part of a broader effort to trace the source of the Nipah virus following confirmed cases in West Bengal.
