Two suspected Nipah virus cases were found at the Virus Research and Diagnostic Laboratory at AIIMS Kalyani, West Bengal, on Monday, January 12, 2026. Both infected healthcare workers are undergoing treatment and are in "very critical" condition, said a senior West Bengal health official. The two had traveled to Purba Bardhaman for personal reasons. Authorities have started contact tracing in North 24 Parganas, Purba Bardhaman, and Nadia districts. To help the public, the state government launched three helpline numbers: 03323330180, 9874708858, and 9836046212. A national joint outbreak response team supports the state's containment and health response efforts. Nipah virus, first found in Malaysia’s Kampung Sungai Nipah village in 1998-99, spreads from animals like fruit bats and pigs to humans. It causes symptoms like fever, muscle pain, sore throat, and breathing problems. In severe cases, it leads to brain inflammation with convulsions and disorientation. Some may carry the virus without symptoms. Tests like PCR, ELISA, and Serum Neutralization Test help diagnose Nipah. The virus is highly dangerous and requires special lab facilities. No vaccine exists yet for humans or animals. Patients receive supportive care and are isolated to prevent spread. Earlier NiV outbreaks in India occurred mainly in Kerala, with a high death rate of 91% in 2018. Improved treatments like monoclonal antibodies and antivirals reduced deaths to 33% by 2023. The recent 2025 Kerala outbreak saw quick use of drugs including Remdesivir. West Bengal authorities remain alert and emphasize urgent action to contain this deadly virus.