EXPLAINER: What is Nipah virus?

WEBDESK:  Both the Sindh and Punjab health departments have issued advisories regarding the potential spread of the dangerous Nipah virus, which has affected numerous individuals in India.

The advisory specifically asks of medical superintendents, directors, and livestock departments to exercise extreme caution in hospitals and similar settings.

WHAT IS NIPAH VIRUS?

Nipah virus is a dangerous pathogen first identified in 1998 among pig farmers in Malaysia and Singapore. The name ‘Nipah’ originates from the village where its first outbreak was discovered. Notably, this virus can spread to humans both directly and indirectly through various means, making it a significant concern for global health authorities.

TRANSMISSION

The natural carriers of the Nipah virus are flying foxes, a type of fruit bat. As Joanne Macdonald from the University of the Sunshine Coast notes, these bats can contaminate fruits through urination. Consumption of such contaminated fruits can result in humans contracting the virus, leading to illness. Furthermore, direct contact with the bodily fluids of infected bats and pigs can also result in transmission. There have been cases where the virus was transmitted from one human to another.

DISEASE CHARACTERISTICS

Once infected with the Nipah virus, there are no specific treatments. Patients are primarily advised rest, hydration, and symptom management. The virus belongs to the Henipavirus genus and shares a relation with the Hendra virus, another deadly pathogen first identified in Australia.

OUTBREAK HISTORY

The inaugural Nipah outbreak in 1998 was devastating, leading to almost 300 infections and over 100 deaths in Malaysia. Singapore also reported infections. Efforts to curtail its spread led to the culling of a million pigs in Malaysia. Since its initial outbreak, Bangladesh and India have been frequently affected, with Bangladesh facing the majority of cases in recent years. WHO data indicates over 600 Nipah infections between 1998 and 2015. Kerala, a southern state in India, has experienced multiple outbreaks in recent years.

ZOONOTIC TREND

The last few decades have witnessed an increase in zoonotic diseases—illnesses transmitted from animals to humans. Factors such as industrial farming and deforestation have intensified the risk of such diseases. Additionally, the looming climate crisis is predicted to enhance the probability of zoonotic spillover events.

DIAGNOSIS

Diagnosing the Nipah virus can be challenging due to its initial symptoms resembling other diseases. However, tests like RT-PCR, which uses various samples like throat swabs and blood, can detect the virus in its early stages. The ELISA test helps identify the virus during its later stages or post-recovery by detecting antibodies.

TREATMENT

There’s no direct treatment or vaccine for the Nipah virus as of now. Doctors primarily provide supportive care, which involves rest, hydration, and symptom treatment. Potential treatments involving the immune system, like monoclonal antibodies, are under research. Remdesivir, an antiviral drug, has also been considered for treatment, though its efficacy is not conclusive.

PREVENTION

With no available vaccine, prevention is crucial. Basic practices like regular hand washing and avoiding contact with the infected are advised. In endemic areas, steps like boiling date palm juice, washing and peeling fruits thoroughly, and avoiding fruits with bat bite marks are recommended. Farms are advised to implement measures to keep bats away and ensure cleanliness. In some severe cases, culling infected animals and appropriately disposing of their remains becomes necessary to prevent further transmission.