Two cases of Nipah virus have been reported in the country; WHO says there is no need to impose restrictions on travel or trade.

Two cases of Nipah virus have been reported in India. Regarding this, the World Health Organization (WHO) said on Friday, January 30, that there is no need to panic, as the risk of a Nipah virus outbreak in India is low.

The WHO also stated that there is no need to impose restrictions on travel or trade following the detection of these two cases of viral infection.

Low Risk of Nipah Virus Spread in India

In an update shared on its website, the global health agency said, "There is no risk of increased human-to-human transmission in India, keeping the national, regional, and global risk low."

Both cases were reported in the North 24 Parganas district of West Bengal. The WHO said that these cases are confined to this district and there are no reports of the patients having traveled while symptomatic.

No Need to Restrict Travel or Trade

The WHO further stated, "The likelihood of the virus spreading to other states in India or internationally is low." Based on this assessment, the agency said that there is no need to restrict travel or trade due to this virus.

What is the Nipah Virus?

Nipah virus is a disease that primarily spreads from bats to humans. The WHO says it can be transmitted through contaminated food or close contact.

This virus can spread from person to person, but it does not spread easily. Transmission typically occurs only after prolonged close contact between individuals.