Nepal steps up vigilance amid Nipah outbreak in West Bengal
Summary
Nepal has heightened surveillance in hospitals and border crossings following fresh Nipah virus infections reported in West Bengal, India, amid concerns over a possible outbreak.
Key Points
- Nepal's Epidemiology and Disease Control Division has directed hospitals to report sudden deaths and potential Nipah virus symptoms.
- West Bengal reported at least five Nipah virus cases in a week, prompting quarantine measures.
- Health desks at Nepal's borders and Tribhuvan International Airport have been alerted for increased vigilance.
- The Nipah virus has a high fatality rate (40-70%) and no current treatment, making early detection critical.