Health officials in India are on high alert following an outbreak of the deadly Nipah virus near Kolkata. Five cases have been confirmed, including a doctor and several nurses. Authorities have responded quickly by testing hundreds of people and placing high-risk contacts into quarantine to prevent further spread.
Nipah is a serious virus that jumps from animals to humans, primarily through fruit bats. It can also spread from person to person. While it is rare, the World Health Organization views it as a major threat because it has epidemic potential and currently lacks a cure or a vaccine.
The infection often starts with common flu-like symptoms, such as fever, headache, and muscle pain. However, it can quickly escalate into severe respiratory issues or brain inflammation. In the most serious cases, patients may fall into a coma within 48 hours. The fatality rate is high, ranging from 40% to 75%.
Health experts recommend avoiding contact with bats and pigs to reduce the risk of infection. A common source of transmission is consuming food or drink, such as raw date palm sap, that may have been contaminated by bat droppings or saliva. Washing fruit thoroughly and avoiding bitten produce is also vital.
While this outbreak is causing concern in India, there have been no reported cases in the UK. International researchers are currently prioritizing the development of treatments and vaccines to ensure the world is better prepared for such diseases in the future.