Scientists from across the University of Oxford joined a seminar this week to mark 25 years since the first deadly Nipah virus outbreaks in Malaysia and Singapore.
Hosted by the Pandemic Sciences Institute’s Henipavirus Programme, participants heard from two leading global experts on Nipah virus, alongside presentations from early-career researchers from the University of Oxford.
Commenting after the seminar, PSI Director Professor Sir Peter Horby said: “Scientists here at PSI are working with our partners in endemic countries to help develop practical tools, such as vaccines and treatments, so we can ensure the world is better prepared for future outbreaks.
“Researchers in our programme are not only providing world-leading biomedical research on Nipah virus, but are also developing ethical frameworks and tools to minimise stigma, facilitating the human response to future pandemics.”
About Nipah virus
Nipah virus is a devastating disease that can be fatal in around 75% of cases.
Outbreaks have occurred in countries in South-East Asia, including Singapore, Malaysia, Bangladesh and India, with a recent outbreak in Kerala, India where six people have been infected and two have died.
The virus, which is a World Health Organization priority pathogen, belongs to the same family of paramyxoviruses as more well-known pathogens such as measles. There are currently no approved vaccines or treatments for Nipah virus infection.
Read the full story on the Pandemic Sciences Institute website.