The Odisha government is keeping a close watch on the Nipah virus situation developing in neighboring West Bengal. State health authorities confirm they have not detected any cases within Odisha so far. They are prepared to take necessary steps once they receive an official advisory from the National Centre for Disease Control.
Health Department on High Alert
Dr. Nilakantha Mishra, the Director of Public Health for Odisha, explained the current protocol. The NCDC typically issues alerts to states when it finds traces of contagious viruses like Nipah in the population. "So far, NCDC has not issued any alert to Odisha," Dr. Mishra stated. "They are still assessing the situation. If they alert us, we will immediately start following the standard operating procedure to prevent any potential spread of the virus."
He emphasized that the department is monitoring developments carefully. The last advisory Odisha received concerning the Nipah virus was in 2023, following several cases reported in Kerala.
Current Situation in West Bengal
Two cases have been confirmed in West Bengal, involving hospital staff. These individuals are currently undergoing treatment. No further cases have been reported from that state. Dr. Mishra sought to reassure the public, noting that no community transmission of the virus has been reported, which is a positive sign. "We should not worry excessively at this stage," he added. The state is actively waiting for the central government's official advisory on the matter and maintains it is fully aware of the unfolding situation.
Expert Insights on the Nipah Virus
Manojit Bhattacharya, an assistant professor of zoology at Fakir Mohan University in Balasore, provided critical context. He has conducted research on the Nipah virus. Professor Bhattacharya confirmed that the two positive samples from West Bengal were tested at the ICMR-National Institute of Virology in Pune.
He highlighted the serious nature of the virus. "This virus is highly contagious, and the mortality rate for this disease is alarmingly high, ranging from 40% to 70%," he explained. "India has experienced outbreaks five times in the past."
Challenges in Treatment and Prevention
A significant challenge remains in managing the disease. There is currently no licensed treatment regimen specifically for Nipah virus infection. Furthermore, a preventive vaccine has not yet been developed.
Professor Bhattacharya shared that his research team is exploring potential therapeutic solutions using computational biology. They have published their findings in two successive research articles in international journals. "We hope the scientific community will achieve a breakthrough to identify a potential vaccine candidate for this viral disease soon," he expressed with cautious optimism.
The Odisha health department's proactive stance and the ongoing scientific research underscore the coordinated efforts to understand and contain the Nipah virus threat.
