What is known about the Nipah virus as of today?
Hazards of the Nipah Virus
The Nipah virus is a zoonotic viral infection from the Paramyxoviridae family, with bats being the primary carriers.Transmission can occur:
- through contact with infected animals;
- by consuming products contaminated with animal secretions;
- through close contact with an infected person.
After recovering from the infection, 20% of patients may face long-term neurological consequences, such as persistent seizures and personality changes. In some patients, encephalitis may develop even after recovery.
History of the Nipah Virus
According to WHO data, the virus was first identified in 1999 in Malaysia among pig farmers living near the Nipah River. The infection was transmitted from pigs to humans through contact with sick animals. Pigs became infected after consuming dates that may have been contaminated with the urine of fruit bats, which are natural carriers of the virus.In 2004, the virus also affected residents of Bangladesh who drank palm sap contaminated with fruit bat secretions. Human-to-human transmission has been reported, including cases in Indian hospitals.
The last major outbreak occurred in 2008 in Bangladesh, with a mortality rate of about 38% among those infected.
In recent years, according to BBC reports, the Nipah virus has been actively spreading in the Indian state of Kerala. In 2018, there were 19 reported cases, of which 17 ended in death, and in 2023, two out of six confirmed patients died.
Symptoms of the Disease
The Nipah disease can manifest in various forms, from asymptomatic cases to severe encephalitis. The incubation period ranges from four to 45 days.Among the main symptoms are high fever, headache, cough, difficulty breathing, weakness, and in severe cases, altered consciousness and seizures may occur.
Preventive Measures
To prevent infection with the Nipah virus, it is necessary to follow precautionary measures similar to those used during the coronavirus pandemic: avoid contact with infected individuals, wash hands thoroughly, and wear masks and gloves.It is also recommended:
- to maintain personal hygiene;
- to avoid contact with wild animals;
- not to consume raw or undercooked products;
- to seek medical help immediately if symptoms appear.
Measures in Kyrgyzstan Against the Nipah Virus
According to information provided by the Ministry of Health of Kyrgyzstan on January 26, there have been no reported cases of the Nipah virus in the country. The department assures that the epidemiological situation is being monitored by sanitary and epidemiological services.To prevent the possible importation of the infection, as reported by the Ministry of Health, sanitary and quarantine measures at the border have been strengthened. Monitoring the health status of arriving citizens and controlling vehicles is being carried out in accordance with established standards.
Medical institutions in the country have received instructions for early detection, isolation of patients, and organization of anti-epidemic measures.
The department also noted that they maintain constant communication with the WHO and international partners for information exchange and coordination of preventive measures. According to them, there is no reason for panic, and the healthcare system is prepared for rapid response to potential threats.
Additionally, temporary restrictions have been imposed in Kyrgyzstan on the import of animals and products from India that may be susceptible to the Nipah virus.
Current Situation and Forecasts
At present, the risk of the Nipah virus spreading beyond India is assessed as low, reports "RIA Novosti," citing the Russian office of the WHO.The WHO emphasizes that it is closely monitoring the situation.
Indian authorities claim that the Nipah outbreak has been localized.
The image on the homepage is illustrative: msn.com.
