Source: TH
Context: Nipah virus (NiV) has become a significant public health concern in India, particularly in Kerala, where recurrent outbreaks have resulted in fatalities. It is a zoonotic virus, transmitted from animals to humans, and its high mortality rate has prompted urgent government action and preventive measures.
Nipah virus overview:
- Origin: Nipah virus first appeared in Malaysia in 1999 among pig farmers. It was detected in Bangladesh in 2001 and in India around the same time.
- Transmission: NiV is transmitted from fruit bats (flying foxes) to humans through contaminated food or direct contact with infected animals or people. Human-to-human transmission is also possible.
- Symptoms:
- Early signs include fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea, and sore throat.
- Severe cases progress to dizziness, drowsiness, and neurological issues such as acute encephalitis, potentially leading to a coma and death.
Cases in India:
- Siliguri, West Bengal (2001): The first Indian outbreak, involving human-to-human transmission.
- Kerala Outbreaks:
- 2018: 17 fatalities from the virus, concentrated in Kozhikode.
- 2023: Kerala reported six confirmed cases, including two deaths.
- 2024: Kerala reported 2 death recently.
Treatment:
- There is no specific treatment or vaccine for Nipah virus.
- Supportive care: Management focuses on intensive supportive care, treating symptoms, and preventing complications.
- Experimental treatments: The antiviral Ribavirin has shown limited success in reducing mortality rates.
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