Why in News? 

A case of Nipah virus has been confirmed in the Malappuram district of Kerala. 

What is Nipah Virus (NiV)? 

• It is a zoonotic virus, meaning it spreads from animals to humans. 
• Transmission can also occur through contaminated food or direct contact with infected individuals. 

Virus Characteristics 

• Nipah virus is an RNA virus. 
• It belongs to the Paramyxoviridae family, Henipavirus genus. 
• Closely related to the Hendra virus. 

Natural Hosts and Transmission 

• Fruit bats (genus Pteropus) are the primary natural hosts. 
• The virus is present in their urine, feces, saliva, and birthing fluids. 
• It has also been detected in domestic animals like pigs, dogs, cats, goats, horses, and sheep. 

• Fatality Rate: The case fatality rate ranges between 40% and 75%. 

Diagnosis Methods 

• RT-PCR (Real-Time Polymerase Chain Reaction) from body fluids 
• ELISA (Enzyme-Linked Immunosorbent Assay) for antibody detection 

Prevention and Treatment 

• Currently, there are no vaccines available for either humans or animals. 
• Supportive care is the only treatment. 

Global Concern: The World Health Organization (WHO) has listed Nipah virus as a priority disease due to its epidemic potential and lack of treatment.