Goooglenews

Nipah virus is a deadly zoonotic virus that can spread from animals to humans. It is a member of the Paramyxoviridae family, which also includes the measles and mumps viruses. Nipah virus was first identified in Malaysia in 1999, where it caused an outbreak of encephalitis and respiratory illness in pigs and humans. The outbreak resulted in the deaths of over 100 people.

Nipah virus is transmitted to humans through contact with infected animals, including bats, pigs, and horses. It can also be transmitted through contact with contaminated food or water. The virus can also be transmitted from person to person through respiratory droplets or direct contact with bodily fluids.

Nipah virus infection can cause a range of symptoms, from mild to severe. Mild symptoms include fever, headache, and muscle aches. Severe symptoms include encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), respiratory distress, and death.

There is no specific treatment for Nipah virus infection. Treatment is supportive and includes providing oxygen and fluids to patients. In some cases, patients may need to be hospitalized in an intensive care unit.

Nipah virus is a rare disease, but it is highly fatal. The overall mortality rate for Nipah virus infection is estimated to be around 40-70%.

Nipah Virus Deaths in India

India has experienced several outbreaks of Nipah virus infection over the past two decades. The largest outbreak occurred in Kerala in 2018, where over 20 people died. In 2021, an outbreak of Nipah virus infection occurred in West Bengal, where over 10 people died.

Nipah Virus Deaths Across the World

Since Nipah virus was first identified in 1999, there have been over 1,000 deaths reported from the virus in countries such as Bangladesh, India, Malaysia, and the Philippines.

Prevention of Nipah Virus Infection

There are a number of things that can be done to prevent Nipah virus infection, including:

• Avoiding contact with infected animals, bats, and their droppings
• Washing fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them
• Avoiding drinking raw milk or consuming raw meat
• Cooking meat thoroughly before eating it
• Practicing good hygiene, such as washing hands frequently with soap and water