Authors: Francesco Branda, *, Giancarlo Ceccarelli, Marta Giovanetti, Mattia Albanese, Erica Binetti, Massimo Ciccozzi, Fabio Scarpa
Year: 2025
Journal: Microorganisms
DOI: 10.3390/
Summary#
This paper explores the re-emergence of the Nipah virus in Kerala, India, highlighting its critical concern for health authorities due to high fatality rates and lack of vaccine or curative treatment.
Key Findings#
- Nipah virus is a highly lethal and unpredictable pathogen
- Transmitted primarily through contact with fruit bats or consumption of contaminated food, as well as direct human-to-human transmission
- World Health Organization has classified Nipah as a priority pathogen due to its potential to cause widespread outbreaks and even trigger the next pandemic
- Recent outbreaks in India and Bangladesh have exposed the vulnerability of public health systems in containing this virus
Methodology#
- Study Type: Review
- Geographic Focus: Kerala, India; global
- Time Period: Recent outbreaks in India and Bangladesh
Topics#
Epidemiology, Virology, Public Health, Global Health
Relevance#
The paper underscores the persistent threat posed by zoonotic pathogens, emphasizing the role of zoonotic spillovers in pandemic preparedness.