What is Nipah virus spreading in Kerala?

Summary:

• The deadly Nipah virus has caused an outbreak in Kerala, India, leaving the region on edge.
• It is the state's fourth outbreak since 2018.
• Nipah was first identified in 1998 and can be contracted through contact with the bodily fluids of infected bats and pigs or through contaminated food.
• There have been more than 600 reported human infections between 1998 and 2015.
• The virus has a mortality rate of up to 75 percent and there are no vaccines to prevent or cure the infection.

Indian authorities are scrambling to contain an outbreak of the deadly Nipah virus after two people died of the disease in Kerala and at least three others tested positive.

Deadly Nipah Virus Outbreak Reported in Kerala, India

What is the Nipah virus and how does it spread?

Indian authorities are working to contain an outbreak of the Nipah virus in Kerala after two deaths and three positive cases. The virus was first identified in Malaysia and Singapore in 1998 when pig farmers started falling ill. More than 100 of almost 300 infected people ultimately died. Humans can contract the virus by coming into direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected bats and pigs or through contaminated food. There have also been documented cases of transmission between humans, and scientists fear a highly contagious strain of the virus may emerge from bats.

Previous Outbreaks and Spread of the Nipah Virus

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), since its first identification 25 years ago, Nipah has spread thousands of miles. More than 600 human infections were reported between 1998 and 2015. There were outbreaks of the virus in India in 2001 and two more in Bangladesh; 62 of the 91 infected people died. In 2018, an outbreak killed 21 of the 23 infected people in Kerala — Reuters’ May investigation showed this to be one of the most at-risk regions globally, where bat viruses are concerned.

What is the Fatality Rate of the Nipah Virus?

The Nipah virus has no preventive vaccine or cure and has a death rate of up to 75%. Infected people initially develop symptoms like fever, respiratory distress, vomiting, and headaches. In severe cases, encephalitis and seizures can occur, leading to coma. The usual treatment for patients is supportive care. Infected people have a mortality rate of up to 75%, and the WHO lists the virus as a pathogen with epidemic potential.

Conclusion

India has a long history of Nipah outbreaks, and authorities are working tirelessly to contain the situation. With the WHO listing the virus as a pathogen with an epidemic potential, it's up to the government, individuals, and organizations to work together to prevent and control Nipah from becoming the next pandemic. As scientists continue their research and work towards finding a cure for the virus, the world needs to remain vigilant and prepared for any potential outbreaks.

The WHO lists the virus as a pathogen with epidemic potential.