Daijiworld Media Network - Kolkata
Kolkata, Feb 2: Recent public health alerts in India, including the Nipah virus outbreak in West Bengal and the avian influenza (bird flu) outbreak in Bihar, have once again underlined how swiftly viral infections can emerge and spread. While health authorities activate containment measures, experts say individual behaviour often determines whether transmission accelerates or is brought under control.
Medical professionals warn that during viral outbreaks, fear and misinformation frequently spread faster than the virus itself. This panic-driven response leads people to make dangerous mistakes such as ignoring early symptoms, self-medicating without advice, and relying on unverified social media remedies. Such actions not only increase personal risk but also endanger vulnerable groups and add pressure on healthcare systems.
Dr Dip Narayan Mukherjee, Consultant – Microbiology and Infectious Diseases at CK Birla Hospitals, CMRI, said outbreaks test not just immunity but collective discipline. He stressed that understanding common behavioural errors and avoiding them is crucial, especially during high-risk outbreaks like Nipah and bird flu, which carry significant fatality rates.
One of the most critical mistakes, according to Dr Mukherjee, is ignoring early symptoms. Mild fever, sore throat, fatigue or body ache are often dismissed as seasonal illnesses, delaying medical consultation and isolation. In infections such as Nipah, early symptoms may appear mild but can rapidly progress to severe neurological complications. The World Health Organization (WHO) has consistently emphasised that early detection and isolation are key to limiting transmission and improving outcomes.
Another major concern is inconsistent use of preventive measures. People may follow precautions in public places but relax them in homes, offices or social gatherings. Health agencies like the WHO and the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) stress that hand hygiene, respiratory etiquette and mask use, when advised, must be practiced consistently across all settings to be effective.
Self-medication has also emerged as a serious issue during outbreaks. Dr Mukherjee cautioned against the use of antibiotics, steroids or unproven home remedies without medical supervision, noting that antibiotics have no role in treating viral infections. The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has repeatedly warned that misuse of antibiotics fuels antimicrobial resistance, while inappropriate steroid use can weaken immunity and worsen outcomes in viral infections.
Misinformation circulating on social media further complicates outbreak responses. Health authorities have observed that unverified claims and so-called miracle cures undermine evidence-based public health measures. The Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has advised citizens to rely only on official advisories and qualified healthcare professionals.
Experts also point to neglect of isolation as a major risk factor. Many people continue attending work or social events despite being symptomatic, often due to professional or social pressure. In high-risk infections like Nipah, even brief exposure can have serious consequences. The WHO has reiterated that staying home when unwell is a public health responsibility.
Improper use of masks and disinfectants is another concern. Reusing disposable masks, wearing them incorrectly or excessive use of disinfectants without proper ventilation can reduce protection and cause health issues, particularly respiratory irritation.
To reduce risks during outbreaks, doctors recommend early symptom recognition, timely medical consultation, consistent hygiene practices, avoiding self-medication, responsible use of masks, strict adherence to isolation guidelines and special care for vulnerable populations. Adequate sleep, proper nutrition and stress management are also vital in supporting immune health.
Health experts say recent outbreaks are a reminder that human behaviour can either fuel or fight infections. Calm, informed and consistent actions guided by science, rather than fear, remain the strongest defence against viral diseases.