Authorities in Thailand and Malaysia have increased airport screening measures following the detection of two cases of the deadly Nipah virus in India. The virus is primarily transmitted from infected animals, particularly fruit bats, to humans. While it can be asymptomatic, Nipah is highly dangerous with a case fatality rate ranging from 40 to 75 percent. Human-to-human transmission is possible but not common, and outbreaks are usually contained.
Since its first identification in Malaysia in 1999, Nipah has caused sporadic outbreaks in Bangladesh and India. The virus is primarily spread through contact with contaminated tissues or consumption of fruit products contaminated by infected fruit bats. Symptoms include fever, headaches, muscle pain, neurological signs, and respiratory problems.
Despite its high fatality rate, Nipah has not shown significant signs of widespread human-to-human transmission. While there are currently no approved vaccines or treatments, ongoing research is being conducted, including a vaccine developed by Oxford University scientists. The virus remains a public health concern, especially in regions prone to outbreaks.