Nipah Virus: Causes, Symptoms, Treatment and Prevention
Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic virus, meaning it can spread between animals and people. Fruit bats, also called flying foxes, are the animal reservoir for NiV in nature. It is also known to cause illness in pigs and people.
The virus can spread through infected fruit bats to people and other animals, such as pigs.
The Nipah infection can cause problems ranging from respiratory issues to fatal encephalitis, meaning inflammation of the brain.
Moderate to high grade fever, headache, vomiting, breathlessness, seizures, and fatigue are some common symptoms.
Nipah virus infection can be prevented by avoiding exposure to sick pigs and bats in areas where the virus is present.
Among preventive measures, first is regular handwash with soap and water.
Avoid contact with sick bats or pigs.
Avoid eating or drinking products that may be contaminated by bats like raw date palm sap, raw fruit or fruits found on the ground.
Avoid contact with the blood or body fluids of any person known to be infected with NiV.
The treatment of Nipah virus infection is mostly limited to supportive care and management of acute encephalitis syndrome. According to the WHO, there are no drugs or vaccines specific for Nipah available.