Nipah virus (NiV)

Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic viral disease that poses a serious public health threat due to its high fatality rate and potential for human-to-human transmission. Recent cases in West Bengal have renewed concerns, prompting containment measures and increased surveillance.
Major Points
Nature of the virus: Nipah virus is transmitted from animals (mainly fruit bats) to humans, and can also spread through contaminated food or close human contact.
Health impact: Infection can range from mild or asymptomatic illness to severe respiratory disease and fatal encephalitis.
Geographical spread: NiV outbreaks have been reported only in Asia, including Malaysia, Bangladesh, India, the Philippines, and Singapore.
Economic impact: The virus also affects animals like pigs, causing major losses to farmers.
Global concern: Nipah virus is listed by the WHO as a priority disease due to its epidemic and pandemic potential.