International Journal of Scientific Research and Engineering Development

Nipah virus (NiV) is a highly fatal zoonotic pathogen belonging to the family Paramyxoviridae and genus Henipavirus. First identified during outbreaks in Malaysia and Singapore between 1998 and 1999, NiV remains a major public health concern in South and Southeast Asia. The virus has a negative-sense, single-stranded RNA genome encoding six structural proteins (N, P, M, F, G, and L) and exhibits pleomorphic morphology. Fruit bats (Pteropus spp.) are Its natural reservoir, with transmission occurring through bat-human contact, contaminated food (e.g., raw date palm sap), infected animals such as pigs and horses, and limited human-to-human spread. Clinical outcomes range from asymptomatic infection to severe respiratory disease and fatal encephalitis, with case fatality rates varying between 40% and 75%, significantly higher in India and Bangladesh than in Malaysia and Singapore. Epidemiological studies report outbreaks in Malaysia, Bangladesh, India, the Philippines, and Singapore, often linked to occupational exposure, animal contact, and cultural practices. Diagnosis relies on RT-PCR, virus isolation, serology (ELISA, IFA), and immunohistochemistry. Currently, no licensed antiviral therapy or vaccine exists; management focuses on supportive care, infection control, public awareness, and animal surveillance. Research into vaccines—including recombinant viral vectors (VSV, measles virus, canarypox), virus-like particles (VLPs), DNA vaccines, and immunoinformatics-based peptide vaccines—has shown promise in preclinical studies. Global initiatives, such as the Coalition for Epidemic Preparedness Innovations (CEPI), are advancing vaccine development. Given its high mortality, recurrent outbreaks, and pandemic potential, NiV requires strengthened surveillance, early detection, and integrated strategies combining public health measures, research, and vaccination efforts.