Nipah virus: India says only 2 cases confirmed as fears rise

India’s Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has denied reports about five cases of Nipah virus in the state of West Bengal, saying that only two cases have been confirmed.

"A total of 196 contacts linked to the confirmed cases have been identified, traced, monitored, and tested. All traced contacts have been found asymptomatic and have tested negative for Nipah Virus Disease," the ministry said in a statement.

Enhanced surveillance, laboratory testing, and field investigations were undertaken through coordinated efforts of central and state health agencies, which ensured timely containment of the cases, it added.

"No additional Nipah Virus Disease cases have been detected so far," the ministry emphasised, adding that the situation is under constant monitoring, and all necessary public health measures are in place.