Welcome to the Nipah virus hub on FSP Health and Fitness Africa. Here you’ll find short, plain‑language updates on new cases, research findings, and practical advice to keep you and your family safe.
Nipah virus is a germ that can jump from animals to people. It was first spotted in Malaysia in 1998, when pig farmers got sick. The virus belongs to a group called zoonotic diseases, which means it lives in animals but can infect humans.
The virus spreads through direct contact with the saliva, urine, or blood of infected animals like fruit bats or pigs. It can also move from person to person when someone breathes in infected droplets or touches contaminated surfaces. To lower the risk, avoid close contact with sick animals, wash your hands often, and wear protective gear if you work in farms or labs.
Typical symptoms start with fever, headache, and sore throat. Within a few days a person may develop confusion, dizziness, and trouble breathing. In severe cases, the infection attacks the brain and can cause seizures or coma. If you notice these signs after exposure, seek medical help right away.
Outbreaks have happened in South and Southeast Asia, especially in Bangladesh, India, and the Philippines. Each time, health officials have used isolation, contact tracing, and quarantine to slow the spread. There’s no specific cure yet, so early detection and supportive care are the best tools.
Prevention steps you can take at home include: cooking all fruit thoroughly, keeping livestock away from bat habitats, and using masks if you’re caring for a suspected case. Schools and workplaces should have clear plans for isolation and cleaning if an outbreak occurs.
Doctors treat Nipah infections mainly with fluids, oxygen, and medications to control fever and seizures. Some experimental antivirals are being tested, but they’re not widely available. Recovery can take weeks, and some people have lasting brain damage, so follow‑up care is crucial.
Staying informed is key. Our tag page pulls together the newest articles, expert interviews, and official health alerts about Nipah virus. Bookmark this page and check back often for the latest guidance that matters to you.
In the southern state of Kerala, India, health officials are urgently trying to control a Nipah virus outbreak after a 14-year-old boy tragically died. Authorities are monitoring around 350 contacts, including 'high risk' individuals and symptomatic people. With no current vaccines, the World Health Organization prioritizes the deadly virus known for its high mortality rate of up to 75%.
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