Severe cases can lead to brain swelling, or encephalitis, where symptoms can include confusion, drowsiness and seizures.

Nipah virus is dangerous, but panic isn't the answer. Understanding how it spreads, recognising early symptoms and following basic hygiene can sharply reduce the risk.

While only two people reportedly contracted the virus, health officials are concerned because of the high mortality rate if it spreads.

Health authorities are advising travelers to maintain good hygiene and avoid animal contact amid a Nipah virus outbreak in India's West Bengal state, which has prompted tighter disease surveillance across Asia.

The virus has a fatality rate ranging from 40 per cent to 75 per cent, according to health experts. There is currently no approved vaccine or cure, making early containment and monitoring critical.

The UK Health Security Agency has said it continues to 'monitor the situation closely' after two countries began checking arriving passengers for the deadly Nipah virus