Following confirmation of the cases, authorities launched emergency containment protocols. Approximately 180 individuals have undergone testing, while 20 high-risk contacts were placed under quarantine. Although all results have so far returned negative and no symptoms have emerged, officials confirmed that repeat testing will be conducted before the end of the 21-day incubation window.
India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has issued a nationwide advisory, directing states to strengthen disease surveillance, improve early detection, and reinforce infection-control practices across healthcare facilities.
Several states, including Tamil Nadu, have instructed hospitals to closely monitor cases of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES), a broad diagnostic category that can conceal Nipah infections. Medical experts have warned that confusing Nipah with AES or routine respiratory illnesses poses serious risks, particularly for healthcare workers.
Kerala, which has experienced repeated Nipah outbreaks in recent years, recorded more than 100 AES cases last year. Specialists believe expanded diagnostic testing could uncover additional Nipah infections that may currently be going undetected.
Regional Precautions Intensify
Beyond India, regional governments have begun implementing preventive measures. Thailand’s Ministry of Public Health has started screening passengers arriving from India at Suvarnabhumi and Don Mueang airports, with special attention given to travelers from West Bengal.
Travelers are also being issued “Health Beware Cards,” advising them to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear within 21 days of arrival.
Nepal has strengthened health checks at Tribhuvan International Airport and key land border crossings, while increasing disease surveillance in Koshi Province.
Meanwhile, Taiwan’s Centers for Disease Control announced plans to reclassify Nipah virus infection as a Category 5 notifiable disease, a designation reserved for rare or emerging illnesses that pose significant public health threats. The proposal is currently open for public consultation.
Despite the heightened alert, Taiwan has maintained a Level 2 “yellow” travel advisory limited to Kerala, a known Nipah hotspot, while continuing to closely monitor developments in West Bengal.