Tamil Nadu’s health department has ordered a strict watch on Nipah virus after two cases were found in Nadia district, West Bengal. The Directorate of Public Health has asked all district and city health officers to closely monitor cases of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES), especially among patients with fever and altered sensorium. People admitted with AES symptoms and recent travel or contact linked to West Bengal should be carefully checked for Nipah infection. Health Minister Ma. Subramanian said on January 19, 2026, that precautionary guidelines have been issued. District health officers must step up surveillance, while hospital heads and block medical officers are advised to stay alert. Director of Public Health A. Somasundaram emphasized the importance of preparing healthcare workers and the public to prevent and control the virus. Surveillance, case management, and infection controls are to be strengthened in all health facilities. Both government and private hospitals have been alerted to report AES cases quickly through the Integrated Disease Surveillance Programme portal. The guidelines explain Nipah’s transmission, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention. The virus spreads from close contact with infected persons, bats, or pigs. Bat secretions on fruit trees, contaminated fruit, or raw date palm sap are common sources of infection. Human-to-human transmission can occur through close contact without proper protection. Symptoms include fever, headache, weakness, cough, vomiting, convulsions, and altered mental status. Nipah causes severe brain inflammation or respiratory problems. The fatality rate ranges from 40% to 75%, and can reach 100% in some outbreaks. People exposed to bat habitats like orchards, caves, or wells are at higher risk. Avoid eating raw palm sap, fallen fruits, or entering abandoned wells. Healthcare workers should isolate suspected Nipah patients to stop spread. The government’s quick action aims to prevent any further spread of this deadly virus.