Nipah Virus Outbreak 2026: Latest Cases in Kerala and West Bengal

Health officials have declared a Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala and West Bengal as “contained,” though airports across Asia continue to implement health screenings for travelers from affected areas.

Latest Updates: Confirmed Cases and Containment Efforts

Two confirmed cases have been reported in West Bengal since December 2025. Nearly 200 close contacts (including family and healthcare workers) were identified and quarantined; all have tested negative and remain asymptomatic. This follows a series of cases in Kerala throughout 2025, where at least four infections and two deaths were reported in the Malappuram and Palakkad districts. 

Common Nipah Virus Symptoms to Watch For

Incubation ranges from 4 to 14 days, starting with fever, headache, and respiratory distress, which can progress to fatal encephalitis (brain inflammation).

How Does Nipah Spread?

A zoonotic virus typically spread from fruit bats (flying foxes) to humans via contaminated fruit, raw date palm sap, or direct contact with infected pigs. Human-to-human transmission is possible through close contact.

Is There a Cure? Current Treatment Options

Fatality Rate is extremely high, ranging from 40% to 75%. There is currently no approved vaccine or cure; treatment is limited to intensive supportive care. 

International Response & Travel Alerts

The outbreak has triggered “Covid-style” health screenings at major Asian transit hubs: 

• Thailand: Intensified screening and thermal scanners at Bangkok’s Suvarnabhumi Airport and Phuket for direct flights from West Bengal.
• Singapore: Reintroduced temperature screenings and health advisories for inbound travellers.
• Nepal: Heightened surveillance at Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport and land border crossings with India.
• Taiwan: Proposing to list Nipah as a Category 5 disease, its highest alert level for emerging infections.
• China: Strengthening disease prevention in border areas and conducting risk assessments ahead of the Lunar New Year travel rush.