Beyond the Headlines: Why Henipaviruses Warrant Our Attention.

Abstract

Henipaviruses, including Hendra and Nipah viruses, represent significant zoonotic threats with higher mortality rates. Due to limited therapeutic interventions, poses substantial challenges. These bat-borne pathogens were first identified in Australia (Hendra, 1994) and Malaysia (Nipah, 1998-1999), with subsequent multiple outbreaks. The recent discovery of Camp Hill virus in North American shrews, suggest broader geographic distribution than previously recognized. Transmission occurs primarily through contact with reservoir hosts, though human-to-human spread has been documented in Nipah outbreaks. Initial non-specific febrile symptoms can progress to fatal encephalitis with distinctive pathological findings including syncytia formation and vasculitis. A concerning feature is the potential for relapsing encephalitis months or years after initial infection. Management remains predominantly supportive, highlighting the urgent need for effective antivirals, vaccines, and enhanced surveillance. Expanded research into therapeutic countermeasures is essential to address this emerging global public health threat.