" PREVENTION IS BETTER THAN CURE " - Desiderius Erasmus
INTRODUCTION
In recent years, various infectious diseases caused by viruses have plagued across the world, which poses constant threat. One such virus infection which results in a severe and fatal disease is the Nipah virus infection. This is a zoonotic pathogen which has been the cause of outbreaks in several countries and has raised severe concern for scientists, health officials, and the people all around the world. In this blog , we will learn more about Nipah virus, exploring its origins, transmission, symptoms, and the efforts being made to combat it.
The World Health Organization (WHO) has classified Nipah virus as a priority pathogen and is actively working with affected countries to strengthen surveillance, improve laboratory diagnostics, and enhance healthcare capacity to respond effectively to outbreaks.
EARLY ORIGIN OF NIPAH VIRUS
Incubation period :
4 to 14 days. However, an incubation period as long as 45 days has been reported.
Mode of transmission :
Reservoir : Bat( Genus - Pteropus). They transmit the disease but does not suffer from the disease.
(1) Direct contact:
(a) with the infected bats, their excreta
(b) pigs (which are amplifying hosts)
(c) from human to human transmission [through droplet infection, fomites and objects]
(2) Consumption of infected fruits (eating fruits which were partially eaten by the infected bats).
CLINICAL FEATURES :
Initially, infected people develop symptoms which include sore throat, fever, headaches, vomiting and myalgia.
This can be followed by dizziness, drowsiness, altered consciousness, and neurological signs which might indicate acute encephalitis.
The case fatality rate of Nipah virus infection is estimated at 40–75 % but can vary by outbreak according to surveillance and clinical management in affected areas.
PREVENTION:
(1) Reducing the risk of bat-to-human transmission:
Efforts should be made to prevent bats from the sap collection sites and other fresh food products(such as raw date palm juice).Freshly collected date palm juice should be boiled, and fruits should be thoroughly washed and peeled before consumption. Fruits with any sign of bat bites should be discarded.
(2) Reducing the risk of animal-to-human transmission:
While handling sick animals or during slaughtering gloves and other protective clothing should be worn. Routine and thorough cleaning and disinfection of pig farms with appropriate detergents may be effective in preventing infection. People should avoid any contact with infected pigs. If an outbreak is suspected, then the animal farms should be quarantined immediately. Culling of infected animals – with close supervision of burial or incineration of carcasses – may be necessary to reduce the risk of transmission of infection to the people.
(3) Reducing the risk of human-to-human transmission:
Close physical contact with Nipah virus-infected people should be avoided. Regular hand washing should be practiced after treating or visiting sick people.
TREATMENT:
Currently, there are no drugs or vaccines that specifically target Nipah virus infection. Symptomatic treatment is given. In case of severe respiratory and neurologic complications, intensive supportive care is given. PPE is recommended to the caregivers to prevent and reduce the risk of transmission of virus from the infected individuals to the people who are at risk.
Key elements to focus on are infection prevention and control measures which includes isolating patients, using personal protective equipment and decontaminating surfaces. Through surveillance, research, and preparedness, we can reduce the impact of Nipah virus and any other potential pandemics on a global scale.
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