Tamil Nadu steps up surveillance after Nipah cases in West Bengal

Tamil Nadu has stepped up disease surveillance and hospital preparedness following the confirmation of two Nipah virus cases in Nadia district of West Bengal, prompting a nationwide health alert.

Acting on advisories from the Government of India, the Tamil Nadu Directorate of Public Health (DPH) and Preventive Medicine has instructed all district, city and municipal health authorities to intensify monitoring



for Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) across the State.

The health department has directed that all patients presenting with fever and altered sensorium be closely observed, with special attention to those having a recent travel history to West Bengal or contact with individuals from affected areas.

Such cases must be promptly evaluated for possible Nipah virus infection, officials said.