Human trials for a vaccine against a deadly virus that kills as many as 3 of 4 of the people it infects has begun in an undisclosed area where Nipah is actively infecting victims. That area potentially could affect 2 billion people.

The volunteers received their first shots over the past week. Although bats can spread the disease via other animals such as goats, pigs, cats and horses, Forbes says it can also spread via blood products.

Health agencies estimate as many as 75% of people infected with Nipah will die from the infection. Forbes says that those who survive may then face long term neurological issues stemming from the infection, with symptoms such as neurological issues stemming from the infection,

Knowledge gained from the trial could also help with developing countermeasures for Paramyxovirus, a large viral group that includes the often fatal Hendra virus.

SOURCES:

Forbes JANUARY 14, 2024

BBC.COM JANUARY