Authors: Naomi Hauser, Alexis C. Gushiken, Shivakumar Narayanan, Shyam Kottilil, Joel V. Chua
Year: 2021
Journal: Tropical Medicine and Infectious Disease Review
DOI: 10.3390/tropicalmed6010024
Summary#
This paper reviews the evolution of Nipah virus infection, its epidemiology, microbiology, and the therapeutic agents and vaccines in development.
Key Findings#
- Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic paramyxovirus with bat reservoir hosts
- Human infections with NiV have varying symptoms including fever, rapid neurological decline, and respiratory symptoms
- Nearly annual outbreaks have been described since 1998 with case fatality rates reaching greater than 90%
- The lack of effective therapy or vaccines makes NiV’s pandemic potential significant
Methodology#
- Study Type: Review
Topics#
Epidemiology, Clinical, Virology
Relevance#
The paper reviews the current state of knowledge on Nipah virus and its high case fatality rate, highlighting the need for effective therapy and vaccines.