The resurgence of the Nipah virus (NiV) in Kerala, India, has prompted Southeast Asian nations, including Vietnam and Thailand, to enter a state of high alert. With a recorded fatality rate ranging from 40% to 75%, this highly virulent pathogen currently lacks both a preventive vaccine and specific therapeutic treatment.
Characteristics and transmission mechanisms:
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Origins: A zoonotic virus transmitted from animals to humans, primarily through fruit bats (natural hosts) or infected pigs.
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Transmission routes: Direct contact with bodily fluids (blood, saliva, urine) of infected animals or humans; consumption of contaminated food (such as raw date palm sap or fruits bitten by bats).
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Symptoms: Following an incubation period of 4-14 days, patients typically experience fever, sore throat, cough, and shortness of breath. In severe cases, the virus triggers acute encephalitis, leading to seizures, mental confusion, and deep coma within 24-48 hours.
Potential entry risks and response measures:
Preventive health experts suggest that while Vietnam has yet to report any cases, the risk of entry remains significant via two primary pathways:
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International travel: Individuals returning from active outbreak zones.
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Wildlife: The natural migration of fruit bat populations across Asia.
Recommendations from the Ministry of Health and HCDC:
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Border control: Strengthening screenings for passengers arriving from affected areas, particularly those exhibiting fever or respiratory issues.
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Personal prevention: Avoid consuming fruits with bat tooth marks or raw sap; practice frequent handwashing and limit contact with wildlife.
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Medical surveillance: Healthcare facilities are advised to remain vigilant for patients with symptoms of encephalitis who have relevant epidemiological links to outbreak regions.
Source: https://tuoitre.vn/vi-rut-nipah-tai-xuat-tai-an-do-nguy-co-xam-nhap-viet-nam-20260126230529863.htm