How does the Nipah virus circulate?

Kerala has reported four Nipah virus infections, including two tragic deaths. This serves as a sobering reminder of the serious danger the virus poses. Let’s examine how the Nipah virus, one of the most dangerous diseases, spreads.

Direct contact with infected animals, especially fruit bats from the Pteropus species, sometimes known as flying foxes, is the main way that the Nipah virus (NiV) spreads. These bats act as the virus’s natural reservoir hosts.

Humans may get the disease from these bats or through their body fluids, such as saliva, urine, or feces. Handling or eating fruits tainted with bat saliva or urine is another typical method of transmission.

Additionally, interaction with infected animals, especially pigs, who serve as intermediate hosts, may spread the virus. This emphasizes how difficult it is for the virus to spread between people and animals.

Another way for the Nipah virus to spread is via the consumption of infected food or drinks. Specifically, the virus may be acquired by people who consume raw date palm sap that has been contaminated by bat saliva while eating.

Before ingestion, the sap must be properly prepared, such as by heating or boiling.

Also Read: What makes the Nipah virus distinct from the Corona virus?

The possibility of human-to-human transmission of the Nipah virus, especially during outbreaks, is one of the virus’s most concerning features. Close contact with an infected individual is often necessary for this to happen.

Transmission may take place via contact with infected surfaces or objects, as well as exposure to respiratory secretions like coughing or sneezing. Another way for human-to-human transmission to occur is by direct physical contact with an infected person. Rapid containment measures are essential during Nipah virus epidemics due to these considerations.

Although the Nipah virus poses a serious danger, it is also important to remember that it is not as contagious as certain other infectious illnesses like the flu or COVID-19. Nevertheless, it should be seriously worried about due to its ability to cause severe disease and its relatively high death rate, which may surpass 50% during outbreaks.

Preventive measures include avoiding direct contact with bats and their excrement, ensuring that date palm sap is properly treated before consumption, diligent hand hygiene, and putting strong infection control measures in place in healthcare settings.

As seen by the recent occurrences in Kerala, monitoring, early diagnosis, and proactive public health actions are also essential for managing and limiting Nipah virus epidemics.