A NIPAH virus outbreak in Kerala, south India, appears to have been contained, but health officials warned this week that more cases could yet emerge.
Discovered in 1999, when it killed at least 100 people in Malaysia, the Nipah virus can spread to humans via saliva, urine and faeces from bats or pigs. The Kerala outbreak is thought to have started from a well that was contaminated by bats.
The virus causes flu-like symptoms and vomiting, often leading to acute respiratory problems and a fatal brain inflammation.
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So far, 17 of the 18 people initially confirmed to have the virus have died. Two people diagnosed at a later date are responding to treatment with an antiviral drug, and 22 remain under observation.
There have reportedly been no new confirmed infections since 17 May, but vigilance will continue throughout June. Around 2400 potential contacts of confirmed and suspected cases are being quarantined at home.
This article appeared in print under the headline 鈥淜erala watches for deadly Nipah virus鈥�