Nipah Virus Explained: Causes, Symptoms and Prevention

Nipah Virus cases have emerged recently. According to sources, two confirmed cases of Nipah virus (NiV) infection have been reported in West Bengal (India), reported to the WHO on 26 January 2026. This has called for strict medical screening for Nipah virus symptoms; it is important to be aware of the virus to act on time through hospitals and home healthcare services. Nipah Virus is a zoonotic virus; in layman's terms, it is an infection-causing virus that spreads between animals and humans, causing serious illness. The Nipah virus disease symptoms and severity can vary from person to person; however, it is important to keep a check on health and take preventive measures.

Let’s gradually move towards understanding the illness better to manage it better.

How Nipah virus spread?

There are mainly two ways in which the Nipah Virus spreads.

Animal to Human

1. Being in contact with the bat urine and faeces - Fruit bats or the flying foxes are the natural carriers of the Nipah virus.

2. Eating the fruit contaminated by the virus-carrying bat- Nipah virus transmission through the saliva in the fruit, especially the date palm.

3. Drinking raw date palm sap- Even if it is a natural refresher, it may still carry the virus that may harm health.

Human to Human

1. Being in contact with respiratory droplets, urine, or blood- A person infected with the Nipah virus can cause the virus to spread.

2. Caring for the patient without any protective gear or hygiene practices- This may specifically cause virus exposure to the healthcare professionals.

3. Can spread from family or hospital to the community- If not contained and controlled on time, it can cause an outbreak.

What are the Symptoms of Nipah Virus in Humans?

Nipah virus infection can be symptomatic or asymptomatic. The onset can range from 3 to 14 days.

The more prominent symptoms could be recognised as follows:

• Initial phase: Fever and chills, fatigue, drowsiness, vomiting, diarrhoea, and flu-like symptoms.

  
  

• Second Phase: Heavy breathing, respiratory distress.

• Severe Phase: Seizure, neurological symptoms such as confusion, encephalitis (inflammation in the brain) and coma in severe cases.

Is there a treatment for the Nipah Virus?

There is no such definitive treatment yet for the Nipah virus; however, experimental treatments are being evaluated through scientific research done by experts.

• There is supportive care available for the symptoms, which can be through home healthcare services or hospital services.

• IV drip at home can help manage extreme dehydration.

• Injection and medication can help manage fever (they may not control the virus, though) Respiratory distress, like heavy breathing, can be managed through exercise and yoga at home.

What are the preventive measures that can be taken

While the virus doesn't have a cure, preventive measures can certainly be taken, such as:

• Avoid eating bitten or dropped fruits.

• Wash any fruits before eating.

• Avoid drinking raw date palm sap (khajur ras) as it may be contaminated.

• Avoid contact with infected animals or humans.

• Use proper hygiene measures or wear a PPE kit if you are a healthcare worker or a caregiver.

• Be well aware of the Nipah virus and make others aware of it.

  
  

How do Viruses Affect the Human Body?

1. Viruses mutate at a much faster rate by harming the cells, which means they are harder to contain if there’s an outbreak and if they spread rapidly.

2. Some viruses do not have a cure, like the Nipah virus, which means that the virus can prove to be fatal.

3. It weakens the immune system and makes it more susceptible to illnesses.

4. May cause long-term health problems to the elderly or those who have a weak or compromised immunity.

5. May depreciate the present quality of life of the individual and affect the life of their family members as well.

6. May cause serious health concerns to other members of the family, the healthcare workers, as well as the community at large.

Conclusion

Watching the news and knowing about another viral disease can be scary; however, it can be managed with awareness about the disease, its symptoms, consequences and how it can be prevented. It paves the way for better health outcomes for an individual, and it also helps the community and the healthcare system. The virus has been a seasonal and recurring threat; however, it can be managed effectively with appropriate emergency preparedness regarding bat populations, respiratory health management, and community awareness of the do’s and don’ts. Nipah virus is not an epidemic; however, it affects the health of many and is still a major threat to health.