Tamil Nadu Enhances Surveillance Following Nipah Virus Cases in West Bengal
In response to two confirmed Nipah virus cases in Nadia district, West Bengal, Tamil Nadu's Directorate of Public Health has instructed health officials to increase surveillance for Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES). Health Minister Ma. Subramanian announced the measures on January 19, 2026, urging close monitoring of AES patients with travel history to West Bengal. Guidelines have been issued for hospitals to report AES cases to District Surveillance Units. The Nipah virus can spread through contact with infected individuals, bats, or pigs, with a case-fatality rate estimated between 40-75%. Symptoms include fever, altered mental status, and respiratory distress. The public is advised to avoid consuming raw date palm sap and entering contaminated areas.
Published 18 hours ago • 19 Jan 2026, 01:28 PM IST