Nipah Virus in India and Malaysia: A Comparative Review of Outbreaks, Transmission, and Public Health Response

Abstract

The Nipah virus (NiV) is a recently emerging A disease-causing germ that can spread from animals to humans, which is part of the Henipavirus genus, which is a health concern Due to its high transmission rate and ability to infect both animals and humans case deadly pathogen is particularly dangerous due to its high fatality rate and ability to spread between humans.This review gives an overview of the epidemiology, transmission dynamics, clinical features, diagnostic methods, therapeutic approaches, and preventive measures applicable to NiV infections. The virus is acquired primarily from Pteropus fruit bats, and This dangerous pathogen spreads through multiple routes: direct contact with infected animals, consumption of contaminated food, or transmission between humans. Outbreaks have occurred in Malaysia, India, Bangladesh, and the Philippines, with different case fatality rates ranging from 40% to 75%. Respiratory distress, encephalitis, and multi-organ failure are the clinical features of NiV infection, which in survivors result in long-term neurological sequelae. The current diagnostic methods primarily use real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) and serological methods, while experimental vaccine candidates and monoclonal antibody treatment are under investigation. Public health interventions, such as surveillance, quarantine, and community education programs, are imperative to contain outbreaks. Despite the current research activities, there is no available antiviral treatment at present, and this highlights the necessity of continued efforts in vaccine development and outbreak preparedness. This review consolidates existing information about NiV, highlights the gaps in current research, and discusses future research directions in the management and prevention of Further cases.