Nipah Virus: An Overview of What Have Known and Learnt

Abstract

Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic Biological Safety Level 4 (BSL-4) pathogen with a high fatality rate and high risk of transmission, which came into public view during the end of the last century. NiV in human usually results in a series of severe symptoms, from critical respiratory illnesses and acute encephalitis. Pteropus bat species distributed broadly across Asia, Africa and Oceania are the natural hosts of the NiV. Most viral outbreaks are reserved to countries of South and South-East Asia, especially Bangladesh. Molecular examination methods such as RT-PCR and ELISA are effective for the diagnosis of the disease, though some steps should be simplified and revised in order for the assays to become more viable in underdeveloped countries. Currently no cure has been developed for this infectious disease. Diagnosed patients should be given adequate supportive care for better recovery and improved prevention procedures should be acquired in order to prevent further spread of the virus.