Abstract

NIPHA VIRUS OUTBREAK IN INDIA; A COMPREHENSIVE REVIEW

Hima Varshini Bellamkonda*, Deepthi Kandula, Bhumika Mulpuri, Nissi Pallikonda, Bhavani Bolla and Padmalatha Kantamaneni

ABSTRACT

Nipah virus (NiV) IS A highly lethal emerging zoonotic pathogen, primarily transmitted by fruit bats of the Pteropus species, which severe as the natural reservoir. First identified in Malaysia in 1998, it has since caused outbreaks in various parts of South and Southeast Asia. The virus is highly infectious and can spread through infected animals or human -to- human transmission. It causes severe respiratory and neurological diseases in humans, often resulting in rapid progression to deadly encephalitis nervous symptoms. The discovery of this new human infection relied on a comprehensive investigation involving epidemiology, microbiology, molecular biology, and pathology. Key histopathological findings included widespread vasculitis with significant thrombosis and tissue necrosis, especially in the central nervous system. Endothelial cell damage, necrosis, and the formation of syncytial giant cells were observed in the affected blood vessels. Various diagnostic techniques, including enzyme -linked immunosorbent assays and polymerase chain reaction -based methods, have been developed for early detection and surveillance. Howeverthere are no vaccines or effective treatments available to combat the disease. Due to the virus’s high fatality rate and the lack of specific antiviral drugs, research is focused on identifying broad-spectrum antivirals and exploring small interfering RNAs (siRNAs) as potential therapeutic options. The absence of effective vaccines and therapeutics, along with the virus’s potential to cause significant global health risks, has led to increased research efforts worldwide to develop an effective vaccine and treatment regimens for NIV. The virus is classified as a biosafety level-4 pathogen, highlighting its high level of danger to public health.

Keywords: Nipah virus [NIV], Encephalitis, zoonotic, vaccines.