The Health Protection Agency (HPA) has urged travellers to West Bengal to exercise caution following the detection of Nipah virus cases in the region.
The HPA issued the advisory in a statement after three cases of Nipah virus were confirmed in West Bengal earlier this month. The agency said the risk of the virus spreading to the Maldives remains low, but noted that the situation in India is being closely monitored.
The HPA advised Maldivians travelling to West Bengal to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions.
Several Nipah virus cases have been reported in India in January. The virus is transmitted to humans through contact with fruit bats of the Pteropus family and pigs. Authorities in West Bengal have quarantined more than 180 individuals identified as close contacts of confirmed cases.
The HPA said no Nipah virus cases or contacts have been reported from any other part of India or from any other country so far, and no cases have been detected in the Maldives.
Common symptoms of Nipah virus infection include fever, headache, cough, sore throat and difficulty breathing. In more severe cases, the infection can affect the brain, leading to confusion and seizures.
The agency noted that some infected individuals may show no symptoms. While there is currently no specific treatment for Nipah virus infection, supportive care is provided to manage symptoms.