ALBAWABA- As a novel virus known as Nipah captures global attention and raises concerns, the memories of the COVID-19 pandemic still haunt people worldwide.
With winter approaching, there's a growing unease about the swift spread of this infection in India. Given the lessons learned from the previous pandemic, comprehending Nipah and taking necessary precautions is of utmost importance.
Nipah virus, named after a Malaysian village where it first emerged in 1998-1999, is classified as a zoonotic virus. It primarily spreads from animals to humans but can also transmit from human to human.
Historically, Nipah outbreaks have primarily occurred in Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific, affecting countries like Malaysia, Singapore, Bangladesh, and India.
Unfortunately, there is currently no specific antiviral treatment for Nipah virus infection.
Nipah virus belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family, similar to measles and mumps. It naturally circulates among fruit bats, specifically those of the Pteropus genus.
Transmission usually requires direct contact with an infected source, either from animals to humans or between people. Diagnosis involves evaluating symptoms and confirming them through laboratory testing.
Nipah typically begins with mild symptoms such as headaches, muscle pain, fatigue, and nausea. However, it can rapidly progress to more severe manifestations, affecting brain function. Severe cases may involve mental confusion, seizures, and encephalitis.
The virus's natural hosts are fruit bats, particularly from the Pteropodid family. Humans can contract Nipah through direct contact with infected bats, consumption of contaminated fruits or raw date palm sap, and close proximity to infected animals, notably pigs.
Human-to-human transmission has also been confirmed, especially in healthcare settings with close contact.
Nipah has been confirmed as a deadly virus by the World Health Organization, and this danger is exemplified by the fatalities observed in the Indian state of Kerala. In the face of this new viral threat, staying informed and implementing preventive measures is crucial.
