Two Nipah-infected nurses remain on ventilator support
The Statesman | 14 January 2026
Two nurses infected with the deadly Nipah virus continue to remain on ventilatory support, with their condition described as extremely critical, hospital sources said on Tuesday.
The two are undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Barasat in North 24-Parganas in West Bengal, where they were employed.
Initial laboratory tests have confirmed the presence of the Nipah virus in samples collected from both nurses.
For final confirmation, the samples have been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune.
Health officials said the situation is being monitored round the clock.
Following the detection of the cases, both the state and central governments have stepped up response measures.
Teams of expert doctors from the state and central health departments have already visited the Barasat hospital.
Authorities are investigating how the two nurses contracted the virus and have intensified contact tracing to identify all those who came into close contact with them in recent days.
Identified contacts are being tested and advised to remain in quarantine.
The state health department has also kept Beleghata ID Hospital on standby to deal with any emergency.
According to Swasthya Bhavan sources, 10 emergency beds and 68 ward beds have been prepared, along with ventilator support.
A Beleghata ID Hospital Patient Welfare Committee member said all necessary preparations had been completed and urged people not to panic but to remain cautious, especially while consuming fruits.
Meanwhile, it has emerged that the two nurses had travelled to East Burdwan a few days ago.
A senior health officer of East Burdwan said a list of 48 people who may have come into contact with them has been prepared, and their health condition is being monitored.
A special team has been formed by the health department to assess the overall situation and frame a standard operating procedure (SOP).
Chief Minister Mamata Banerjee is personally monitoring the developments.
The state government has appealed to the public to avoid unnecessary panic and follow precautionary measures.
Helpline numbers have also been activated for assistance.
Medical experts reiterated that Nipah virus is primarily transmitted through fruit bats, often via partially eaten fruits, and in some cases through contact with infected individuals or contaminated items.
Doctors warned that while early symptoms may resemble common illnesses such as fever or headache, the virus has a high mortality rate ranging between 40 and 75 per cent, making strict vigilance and early medical consultation crucial.