Evolution of Nipah Virus Infection: Past, Present, and Future Considerations

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.

Source

View the entire paper: File:Tropicalmed-06-00024.pdf