HOW DOES IT SPREAD?

Nipah virus can be transmitted by infected pigs, or by fruit bats, through their
secretions of saliva, urine or faeces. The other mode of transmission is human to
human, through body secretions and respiratory secretions. In outbreaks in
Bangladesh and India, “consumption of fruits or fruit products (such as raw date palm
juice) contaminated with urine or saliva from infected fruit bats was the most likely
source of infection", according to the WHO.

Must cases of human-to-human transmission of Nipah were reported among family

and caregivers of infected persons and people coming into contact with patients’
bodily fluids and excretions.

WHAT ARE SYMPTOMS OF NIPAH?

The WHO notes “Infected people initially develop symptoms including fever,
headaches, myalgia (muscle pain), vomiting and sore throat. This can be followed by
dizziness, drowsiness, altered consciousness and neurological signs that indicate acute
encephalitis. Some people can also experience atypical pneumonia and severe
respiratory problems, including acute respiratory distress. Encephalitis and seizures
occur in severe cases, progressing to coma within 24 to 48 hours."

The incubation period of Nipah virus (interval between infection to onset of

symptoms) is typically from four to 14 days. However, the WHO claims an incubation
period of up to 45 days has also been reported.

IS THERE ANY DRUG OR VACCINE?

According to the WHO, “There are currently no drugs or vaccines specific for Nipah
virus infection… Intensive supportive care is recommended to treat severe respiratory
and neurologic complications."

SO HOW CAN IT BE PREVENTED?

The WHO advises, “If an outbreak is suspected, the animal premises should be
quarantined immediately. Culling of infected animals—with close supervision of
burial or incineration of carcasses—may be necessary to reduce the risk of
transmission to people. Restricting or banning the movement of animals from infected
farms to other areas can reduce the spread of the disease."
The National Centre for Disease Control recommends people to wash hands with soap
and water after coming in contact with a sick person or animal, avoid consuming raw
date palm sap or toddy, consume only washed fruits, avoid consuming half-eaten
fruits from the ground, avoid entering into abandoned wells and handle dead bodies in
accordance with the government advisory.

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