The Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic virus, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. It has the potential to spread through contaminated food or direct human-to-human contact with infected individuals. Nipah virus infections can manifest in various ways, ranging from asymptomatic (subclinical) cases to acute respiratory illness and fatal encephalitis, a condition that damages the brain and can be lethal. Additionally, the virus can also cause significant economic losses in the livestock industry when it infects pigs and other animals.
While the Nipah virus has been associated with only a limited number of confirmed outbreaks in Asia, it remains a significant public health concern due to its wide range of potential hosts and the severity of illness it can cause in both animals and humans.
As cases are currently increasing in Kerala, it's crucial to be aware of the symptoms of Nipah virus infection that should never be ignored.
Symptoms of Nipah Virus Infection:
- Fever, often accompanied by muscle aches and joint pain
- Persistent headache
- Muscle discomfort, referred to as myalgia
- Vomiting
- Diarrhea
In severe cases, individuals may experience:
- Brain inflammation, also known as encephalitis
- Seizures leading to a coma
- Death due to respiratory distress
It's worth noting that some people infected with the Nipah virus may not display any symptoms at all. In cases where symptoms do appear, they can range from mild to severe and typically manifest between 4 and 14 days after exposure to the virus.
Also read: Untraceable virus causing ‘unnatural’ deaths in India? Know early symptoms, treatment, how its spread
