Nipah virus is a zoonotic infection caused by the Nipah virus (NiV). It spreads from animals—mainly fruit bats—to humans through contaminated food, infected animals, or close contact with an infected person.
The virus primarily affects the brain and lungs, which is why the illness can become severe. Early symptoms often include fever, headache, muscle pain, vomiting, and sore throat. These symptoms can initially resemble those of a common viral infection, which may make early recognition challenging.
As the disease progresses, it may cause drowsiness, confusion, breathing difficulty, and inflammation of the brain (encephalitis). In severe cases, it can lead to seizures or coma.
Most outbreaks have occurred in South and Southeast Asia, including India. Recent cases in India are linked to the Bangladesh strain (NiV-B), the same strain seen in earlier outbreaks.
People who work with animals, provide healthcare, or live in outbreak areas are at higher risk. While there is no specific cure or widely available vaccine, early medical care and supportive treatment can significantly improve outcomes and reduce complications
