A Nipah virus case has once again put Kerala's health authorities on alert after the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, confirmed an infection in a 43-year-old man undergoing treatment at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital.
The patient is currently being treated in a specially prepared isolation ward and remains in critical condition on ventilator support. As health officials continue contact tracing and monitor the situation, many people are once again asking the same questions: What exactly is Nipah virus, how does it spread and what symptoms should people watch out for?
What is Nipah virus and how does it spread?
According to Dr Dip Narayan Mukherjee, Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease, which means it can spread from animals to humans.
The virus is primarily carried by fruit bats and is considered a serious infection.
Dr Mukherjee explained that people usually become infected through contaminated food products.
"The primary route of infection is the consumption of fruit or fruit products, such as raw date palm juice, that contain urine or saliva from sick fruit bats," he said.
He also noted that the virus can spread through close contact between infected individuals.
According to the doctor, animals including pigs, dogs, cats, sheep and horses can also become infected.
How long does Nipah virus take to show symptoms?
One reason Nipah outbreaks can be difficult to contain is the long incubation period.
According to Dr Mukherjee:
- Symptoms usually appear within 5 to 14 days after infection.
- In some cases, symptoms may take up to 45 days to develop.
"Its incubation period usually lasts 5 to 14 days," Dr Mukherjee said.
He added, "In some cases, symptoms may take up to 45 days to appear."
During this period, infected individuals may continue their normal activities because they do not feel unwell.
"The lack of early warning signs makes it hard to identify infected individuals solely based on symptoms," he said.
This can increase the risk of unknowingly passing the infection to others.
What are the early symptoms of Nipah virus?
Dr Mukherjee said the initial symptoms can look very similar to common viral illnesses.
Early warning signs may include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Sore throat
- Fatigue
"When someone has flu-like symptoms, they might mistake these signs for a common cold," he said.
Because the symptoms can appear mild at first, some people may delay seeking medical attention, which can make outbreak control more challenging.
What long-term health problems can Nipah virus cause?
Nipah virus can lead to severe complications in some patients.
According to Dr Mukherjee, around 25 per cent of patients may develop neurological complications linked to encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain.
Possible complications include:
- Confusion
- Behavioural changes
- Seizures
- Coma
- Respiratory distress
Respiratory symptoms can also increase the risk of transmitting the infection to others.
The doctor cautioned that recovery does not always mean the danger has completely passed.
"There have been cases where neurological problems surfaced weeks or months later," he said.
Because of this, long-term medical follow-up may be necessary in certain cases.
How can the spread of Nipah virus be prevented?
At present, there is no specific antiviral treatment for Nipah virus.
According to Dr Mukherjee, prevention and early identification remain the most effective tools for limiting outbreaks.
Key precautions include:
- Reporting symptoms promptly after a possible exposure.
- Monitoring health for up to 14 days following potential exposure.
- Isolating when unwell.
- Following infection-control measures.
- Seeking timely medical care.
The doctor stressed that early recognition of symptoms, prompt isolation and supportive treatment remain crucial for reducing transmission and preventing serious outcomes.
Disclaimer: Tips and suggestions mentioned in the article are for general information purposes only and should not be construed as professional medical advice.
