Nipah virus: a re-emerging public health concern

Year: 2024

Journal: The Lancet Microbe

DOI: 10.1016/[DOI not provided in text]

Summary

The paper discusses the re-emergence of Nipah virus, a highly virulent RNA virus, causing widespread zoonotic illnesses. It mentions recent outbreaks in various countries including India and Bangladesh, and the lack of licensed vaccines or specific medications for the virus.

Key Findings

Largest known outbreak of Nipah virus disease occurred in Kerala, India in 2023 with a high fatality rate
Approximately half of the cases in Kerala involved human-to-human transmission
Viral strains in India and Bangladesh have more potential for human-to-human transmission than the Malaysian virus isolates
No licensed vaccines or specific medications for Nipah virus

Methodology

Study Type: Review
Geographic Focus: India, Bangladesh, Malaysia, and other countries
Time Period: 1998-present

Topics

Virus Outbreaks, Public Health, Zoonotic Diseases

Relevance

The paper highlights the importance of preventing and limiting the spread of Nipah virus, particularly in early phases of suspected outbreaks, to reduce the risk of infection.

Source

View the entire paper: File:PIIS2666524723003610.pdf