Nipah virus (NiV): Definition, Symptoms and Preventive Measures

Nipah virus (NiV): Definition, Symptoms and Preventive Measures

According to the RKI (Robert Koch Institute), Nipah virus (NiV) was discovered in Malaysia and Singapore in 1999. At that time, more than 200 people became ill. Later there were outbreaks in Bangladesh and India. In the outbreaks observed, more than one in two people affected died.

Infection leads to flu-like symptoms, encephalitis, and coma. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the Nipah virus is a pathogen that could cause a global epidemic.

👉 What is Nipah virus (NiV)?

Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic virus that can cause severe illness in both animals and humans. The virus is named after Kampung Nipah, a village in Malaysia where an outbreak of the virus occurred in 1999.

The Nipah virus (NiV) belongs to the Henipavirus genus within the Paramyxoviridae family. It shares a close genetic relationship with the Hendra virus, which is known to induce illnesses in both animals and humans.

Transmission of NiV occurs primarily through exposure to the saliva, urine, or other bodily secretions of infected animals. Additionally, the virus can be transmitted through contact with contaminated food or water sources.

👉 Symptoms of Nipah virus (NiV)

The NiV incubation period usually spans between 4 to 14 days, although it can occasionally extend to as long as 45 days. The symptoms associated with NiV infection can range from mild to severe in nature.

On the mild cases, individuals may experience symptoms such as fever, headaches, and muscle aches. Conversely, severe cases of NiV infection can result in encephalitis, a condition characterized by a brain infection that has the potential to progress to a coma and ultimately lead to a fatal outcome.

There is no specific treatment for NiV infection. Treatment is supportive and includes measures to manage the symptoms, such as providing fluids, oxygen, and medications to control fever and seizures.

There is no vaccine available for NiV. However, there are steps one can follow to curb the transmission of the virus, including refraining from contact with potentially infected animals like bats, and diligently washing hands after interacting with animals or their byproducts.

👉 Preventive Measures to get rid of Nipah virus (NiV)

The NiV virus is a serious threat to public health. However, there are proactive measures that can be implemented to curb its transmission. By being aware of the risks and taking precautions, we can help to protect ourselves and our loved ones from this deadly virus.

Important preventive measures must be taken as follows:

Wash your hands thoroughly with soap and water after coming into contact with bats or their droppings.

Avoid contact with sick people who may have NiV infection.

Cook all food thoroughly before eating it.

Consume only bottled water or drink water after it gets boiled.

If you suspect that you might have come into contact with NiV, it is advised to seek medical assistance as soon as possible.

👉 Recently found the symptoms of NiV in the Indian state of Kerala

In the Indian state of Kerala a ban on gatherings and school closures have been imposed following an outbreak of the Nipah virus (NiV). Public life is largely at a standstill. According to local media reports, two people had previously died from the infection. Authorities said three others tested positive for the virus.

As with the Nipah virus (NiV) outbreak in Kerala in 2018, the Kozhikode district is once again particularly affected. The neighboring states of Karnataka and Tamil Nadu now require testing of people from Kerala.

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