Virology Journal The Nipah virus (NiV) is a highly virulent zoonotic infectious agent that poses a significant threat to public health. The virus is characterized by its pleomorphic structure and a single-stranded negative-sense RNA genome. It encodes six structural proteins and three nonstructural proteins. Attachment glycoproteins play a crucial role in allowing the virus to attach to the host cell surface. The matrix protein facilitates the encapsidation of the viral genome and proteins, enabling the formation of mature viral particles. The virus can spread via different routes, including zoonotic spillover and human-to-human transmission. Clinical manifestations include mild respiratory illness and severe and fatal encephalitis.
The rising threat of Nipah virus: a highly contagious and deadly zoonotic pathogen
- Published May 13, 2025