Nipah Virus Explained: What You Need to Know to Keep Your Family Safe

When we hear about a virus that kills almost 73 % of the people it infects, we panic naturally. The Nipah virus (NiV) is a rare but very dangerous disease that is raising eyebrows among health experts the world over.

Nipah first turned up in 1998, during an outbreak in Malaysia. Since then, it has resurfaced every few years.  There's a bright side! You can shield yourself. You have the capability. We’ll clarify the virus from China, its spread, and above all, how they can be safe.

Nipah Virus Explained: What You Need to Know to Keep Your Family Safe

What do you mean by nipah virus? Everything You Need to Know.

Think of Nipah as a mean cousin of the viruses that cause the everyday flu, but nastier. It adversely affects the brain and lungs most severely. Fruit bats, commonly known as flying foxes, are the natural reservoir of this virus. Bats do not get sick, but can transmit the virus to humans through food with the virus, infected animals like pigs, and from person to person.

Always Consider the Warning Signs.

Things are about to get tricky here. To begin with, Nipah will seem like a simple cold or flu.

A fever, headache, muscle pain, fatigue, and dizziness may occur. Vomiting is also experienced by some.

However, things can get serious in no time. Within days, you may have trouble breathing, feel confused, or even have a seizure.  The virus may result in a swollen brain or encephalitis, affecting the state of mind, causing disorientation. If you or someone experiencing bat contact or sickness feels this way, don’t delay; see a doctor now.

Nipah Virus Explained: What You Need to Know to Keep Your Family Safe

How is it actually transmitted?

We are dealing with a smart virus. A person can get rabies if they consume a fruit fallen from a tree (possibly a bat bite) or take raw date palm sap.  The disease spreads by direct contact with the secretions of infected persons. As a result, during any outbreak, the family caregivers and health workers are at a high risk.

Nipah Virus Explained: What You Need to Know to Keep Your Family Safe

Safety and Prevention - Your Strategy

Preventive measures are your only weapon since there is no direct treatment or vaccine for Nipah.  Make sure to follow these steps.

Give all fruits and vegetables a scrub.  Avoid eating any fruits that appear to have been nibbled on.

During outbreaks, do not consume the fresh date palm sap (toddy). Boiling it destroys the virus.

Make sure to wash your hands with soap frequently after visiting a farm or other public places.

Don’t get too close if someone is unwell. If you have to take care of covid patients, mask and glove up.

Doctors can presently just offer supportive care, including treating symptoms, hydrating the patient, and supporting their breathing. That’s why awareness is the best medicine.

Be informed, be clean, and never panic. Staying safe can only happen once you know the facts.