Unraveling Nipah Virus: Key Insights on Spread, Symptoms, Management

Abstract

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), a newly identified zoonosis that poses a major risk to both humans and animals is the Nipah Virus (NiV). The infectious agent known as NiV is responsible for devastating illnesses in both people and animals. It was initially found in the Pteropus genus fruit bats and the Pteropodidae family. The most frequently identified route for transmitting NiV is ingesting fresh date palm sap, among other possible mechanisms. Another potential route for NiV to spread from bats to humans through domestic animals. The NiV mostly affects respiratory and neurological tissues, resulting in neurological symptoms and respiratory difficulties in those who are off. The immune system's ability to fight the virus is crucial, and this includes interferon-mediated pathways and innate immunological responses. NiV is regarded as a BSL-4 disease since there is no known cure or vaccine to prevent it only personal care including symptomatic treatment, hydration management, and breathing help, remains the mainstay of care. Three pharmaceutical options for the possible treatment and post-exposure prophylaxis of NiV infection have been studied: ribavirin, favipiravir, and m102.4 monoclonal antibody. This review will give an overview of the virus, explain the circumstances behind its emergence, and speculate on when it might spread to other parts of the world. Keywords: NiV- Nipah Virus; World Health Organization; pathogenesis, vaccines