What was the 2001 Nipah outbreak in Siliguri?

It was India's first recorded outbreak of the Nipah virus, causing a mysterious fever that led to significant deaths.

How many people died in the 2001 Nipah outbreak?

At least 45 people died out of 66 infected during the January-February 2001 outbreak.

Which healthcare professionals were affected during the 2001 Nipah outbreak?

Doctors, nurses, ambulance drivers, and liftmen were among the healthcare workers who tragically lost their lives.

Home / Health / Bengal's Nipah Fight: Doctors Recall 2001 Deadly Outbreak

Bengal's Nipah Fight: Doctors Recall 2001 Deadly Outbreak

15 Jan

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Summary

In 2001, Siliguri battled a mysterious fever, later identified as Nipah virus.
The outbreak infected 66, tragically claiming at least 45 lives.
Healthcare workers faced high mortality rates during the critical outbreak.

Bengal's Nipah Fight: Doctors Recall 2001 Deadly Outbreak

In early 2001, the city of Siliguri was struck by a mysterious fever, which was later identified as the Nipah virus. This marked India's first recorded outbreak of the dangerous infection, causing widespread fear and a high mortality rate. A dedicated team of doctors from Kolkata journeyed to the affected region to combat the epidemic.

The outbreak between January and February 2001 saw 66 people infected, with at least 45 succumbing to the illness. Many of these tragic deaths occurred among healthcare professionals, including doctors, nurses, and ambulance drivers, highlighting the extreme risks involved. Medical teams were dispatched with essential equipment and protective gear.

Despite the grim situation and the unknown nature of the disease, medical professionals responded with a strong sense of duty. Teams from various Kolkata medical colleges, along with national institutions like AIIMS Delhi and NIV Pune, collaborated until the outbreak was contained. The collective effort aimed to save lives and prevent further spread.