Emerging Nipah Virus With Pandemic Potential and High Mortality Rates: Is the Scientific Community Learning From Former Pandemics?

Abstract

As Nipah virus (NiV) infection is characterised by a possible pandemic risk, being currently limited to a small but deadly belt, the attention of other countries is essential. It has often been pointed out that NiV is an under-researched virus with a high-risk potential. This study aimed to show the global research history and status quo based on analyses of various chronological and geographical parameters, including socioeconomic characteristics and research funding. For this purpose, advanced analysis methods and visualisation techniques were applied, such as density equalisation mapping and cluster analysis. The correlation between the number of articles on NiV and the economic strength or intensity of financing per country is significant. However, the comparatively low scientific commitment of countries that are usually among the major players in global scientific publications and the declining scientific interest in NiV research combined with the prevailing knowledge gaps in NiV infectiology in conjunction with the risk of NiV spreading to other areas is extremely threatening. Research on previous viruses such as Corona and mpox shows an equally short-term interest, which has led to an insufficiently prepared situation in the run-up to outbreaks, making it hard to find quick and effective solutions. As often said, the NiV infection belt is small but deadly, but global travel and trade increase the risk of spreading. The scientific community worldwide must be prepared for the possible spread of infections that pose a pandemic risk.