Thai and Malaysian authorities have heightened airport screening measures in response to two cases of the deadly Nipah virus reported in India. The virus, primarily transmitted from infected animals, particularly fruit bats, to humans, is concerning due to its high fatality rate of 40 to 75 percent as per the World Health Organization. While human-to-human transmission is possible, it is not easily spread, and outbreaks are usually contained.
Nipah was first identified in Malaysia in 1999 and has since caused small outbreaks almost yearly, mainly in Bangladesh. The virus spreads through contact with infected pigs, contaminated tissues, or consumption of products tainted with saliva or urine from fruit bats. Symptoms such as fever, headaches, and muscle pain can progress to severe respiratory issues and neurological signs, including acute encephalitis.
Despite its dangerous nature, Nipah has not shown signs of global spread among humans. The absence of approved vaccines or treatments raises concerns, particularly in regions where outbreaks are prevalent. Efforts to develop vaccines are ongoing, with promising candidates in clinical testing. The effectiveness of airport screening for Nipah is debated due to its long incubation period.
