The World Health Organization reported two cases of a rare virus in an eastern Indian state on Thursday.

It’s a terrible disease. Around half the people who get severe Nipah virus infection die of it. The symptoms can vary in severity. It can cause pneumonia, just as COVID could. But the illness we worry most about is neurological symptoms; Nipah can cause encephalitis, which is inflammation of the brain.

Officials in India have confirmed two cases of a deadly virus with no cure. Could Nipah virus make its way to Florida?

The UK Health Security Agency (UKHSA) has shared key guidance on the Nipah virus following a deadly outbreak with two confirmed cases in West Bengal.

Two cases of deadly Nipah virus reported in India, prompt increase in airport screenings to prevent spread and virus outbreak. Here's what to know.

Someone can be infected by eating fruit or other food that is contaminated by the animals that carry the virus. The symptoms of Nipah are high fevers, convulsions and vomiting, the AP reported. There is also cough, headache, muscle pain and difficulty breathing. There could also be brain swelling, the Post reported.

The federal government is closely monitoring an outbreak of Nipah virus in India but has not received any advice to tighten border controls at this stage.

The advisory describes Nipah virus as a deadly zoonotic disease that can spread to humans. Initial symptoms include fever, headache, cough, body aches, and vomiting. Medical experts warn that the virus can lead to severe respiratory illness and encephalitis (brain inflammation).