Seeking to dampen alarm in the region, Indian officials have declared that an outbreak of the deadly Nipah virus has been contained.

The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare said late on Tuesday that it has ensured “timely containment” as it confirmed two cases in West Bengal state. Several Asian countries have introduced screening procedures for travellers arriving from India.

The ministry said 196 contacts linked to the confirmed cases had been “identified, traced, monitored, and tested”, with all tests for the virus negative. It said the statement was intended to clarify “speculative and incorrect figures” in the media.

“The situation is under constant monitoring, and all necessary public health measures are in place,” it said, adding that “enhanced surveillance, laboratory testing, and field investigations” had been undertaken.