Authors: Ali M AlamA
Year: 2022
Journal: Clinical Medicine
Summary#
This paper reviews Nipah virus encephalitis, an emerging zoonotic disease causing fatal encephalitis endemic to southeast Asia and the western Pacific. The review discusses its transmission, clinical presentation, and importance for UK clinicians to consider in returning travellers.
Key Findings#
- Nipah virus is an emerging zoonotic paramyxovirus causing fatal encephalitis
- It can be transmitted by fruit bats, through intermediate animal vectors, and human-to-human spread
- Outbreaks have occurred in Malaysia, Singapore, Philippines, India, and Bangladesh with high case fatality rates
- No vaccines or therapeutic management options are available
- It has the potential to cause a global pandemic
Methodology#
- Study Type: Review
Topics#
Epidemiology, Clinical, Virology
Relevance#
The review emphasizes the importance of UK clinicians being aware of Nipah virus encephalitis in returning travellers, its epidemiology, clinical presentation, and providing preventative advice to those travelling to at-risk locations.