Nipah virus infection in humans can induce subclinical illness, severe respiratory infection, and deadly encephalitis. The case fatality rate is 40%–75%. Local epidemiological surveillance and clinical care can affect epidemic rates.
Symptom
Fever, headaches, myalgia, vomiting, and sore throat are primary signs of infection. After then, dizziness, sleepiness, altered awareness, and neurological indications of the illness may occur.
Past Outbreaks
Nipah virus was first recognized in 1999 during an outbreak among pig farmers in, Malaysia. No new outbreaks have been reported in Malaysia since 1999.
Transmission
The earliest known outbreak in Malaysia, which also afflicted Singapore, caused most human infections via ill pigs or their tissues.
Diagnosis
Nipah virus symptoms are generic, therefore the diagnosis is typically not detected at first. This makes proper diagnosis, outbreak identification and outbreak response difficult.
Treatment
Nipah virus infection is a priority illness for the WHO R&D Blueprint, however there are no treatments or vaccines for it. Severe respiratory and neurologic problems require intensive care.
Prevention
Nipah vaccinations are unavailable. Based on the 1999 Nipah epidemic in pig farms, frequent and thorough washing and disinfection with proper detergents may prevent infection.
WHO response
WHO is supporting affected and at risk countries with technical guidance on how to manage outbreaks of Nipah virus and on how to prevent their occurrence.