The Centre has deployed a National Joint Outbreak Response Team in West Bengal after two suspected cases of Nipah virus disease were identified yesterday at the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) in Kalyani. According to the sources, Health and Family Welfare Minister J. P. Nadda spoke to West Bengal Chief Minister Mamta Banerjee over the telephone, assuring full support from the central government. The sources added that immediately upon receipt of information, the Health and Family Welfare Secretary held discussions with the Chief Secretary and Principal Secretary of Health of West Bengal to review the situation and ensure swift and coordinated action.

The sources further stated that all essential resources, including laboratory support, enhanced surveillance, and infection prevention, have already been mobilised. The State has been advised to ensure close coordination with the deployed expert teams and to undertake meticulous contact tracing and other containment measures.