In a distressing turn of events, a highly lethal strain of the Nipah virus, originating from Bangladesh, has resurfaced in India.
Reportedly has a staggering fatality rate of 90%, health authorities are on high alert as they scramble to contain the outbreak. At the same time, experts emphasize the urgent need to pinpoint the virus's source.
Understanding the Nipah Virus
The Nipah virus, a zoonotic pathogen, first appeared in 1999 when it spread among pig farmers in Malaysia.
Named after the village where it was discovered, Nipah has been classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) alongside diseases like Ebola, Zika, and COVID-19 due to its potential for triggering global epidemics.
As a zoonotic virus, it typically spreads from animals to humans, often through contaminated food, but it can also be transmitted directly between people.
The Deadly Bangladesh Strain
This recent outbreak in India, particularly in the state of Kerala, has been linked to the Bangladesh strain of the Nipah virus.
The Nipah virus was also identified in Bangladesh in 2001, and nearly annual outbreaks have occurred there since then.
Dr. Raman Gangakhedkar, a renowned epidemiologist and former head of epidemiology at the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), tells News18 that this strain has a fatality rate of 90%. "It will kill nine people out of 10 infected, approximately," he cautioned.
The symptoms of this strain include respiratory distress syndrome, leading to breathlessness among initial symptoms and often requiring ventilator support.
In comparison, the Malaysian strain of Nipah is known for manifesting neurological symptoms.
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Race to Find the Source
Dr. Gangakhedkar emphasized the urgency of finding the virus's source to prevent further spread.
He likened the process to a "crime thriller," where authorities must identify the index patient, trace the virus's origin, connect events leading to the patient, and trace everyone in contact with them.
During the 2018 outbreak, investigators discovered that the first patient had direct contact with fruit bats while cleaning a well in a Kerala village. This revelation led to recommendations such as washing fruits before consumption and avoiding bitten fruits.
Previous Outbreaks and Preparedness
Kerala, a state accustomed to dealing with Nipah outbreaks, has successfully contained previous instances through extensive testing and strict isolation measures.
In 2018, the virus claimed 17 lives during its first appearance in the state.
Dr Rajiv Bahl, the head of the ICMR, tells the public that health authorities in India have already contacted Australia to acquire monoclonal antibody doses to combat the virus.
While a vaccine remains elusive, these antibodies have shown promise in treating Nipah.
India's National Institute of Virology (ICMR-NIV) has been conducting an extensive survey, revealing evidence of Nipah virus circulation in bat populations across nine states and one Union Territory.
Dr. Gangakhedkar urged reinforcing surveillance mechanisms to detect and respond to outbreaks promptly.
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