Health authorities in India have increased surveillance after Nipah virus alerts in West Bengal. UAE-based medical experts urge travelers to stay informed without panicking.
India’s National Centre for Disease Control has reported two confirmed Nipah cases since December 2025. Officials have traced all 196 identified contacts, and they tested negative. Monitoring measures have intensified to prevent further spread.
Nipah virus is a rare but serious infection that typically starts with flu-like symptoms. In rare cases, it can lead to severe neurological issues. While the overall risk to travelers is low, being aware and taking early action is important.
Key precautions for travelers
Travelers should look for early symptoms like fever, headache, extreme fatigue, and body aches, which can mimic common viral infections. Serious warning signs include confusion, unusual behavior, excessive drowsiness, seizures, difficulty speaking, imbalance, or reduced consciousness. Fever followed by confusion or seizures should be treated as a medical emergency.
To reduce risk, travelers should avoid close contact with sick individuals, practice good hand hygiene, and not consume uncovered, fallen, or partially eaten fruits.
Extra caution is recommended in areas with reported cases. Travelers should limit visits to healthcare facilities unless necessary. Anyone who feels unwell should seek prompt medical attention and inform healthcare providers about recent travel to affected regions.
Health experts emphasize that Nipah remains rare, but timely medical evaluation is vital if neurological symptoms develop.