The constantly evolving microbial world has the potential for introduction of agents with unique epidemiological characteristics, that pose a great threat and challenge to mankind. Nipah virus (NiV) infection is a striking example of these threats in the recent times. It is a zoonotic virus, transmitted to humans, mainly from tissues and secretions of infected animals or humans. The illness varies from sub-clinical infections to even fatal encephalitis, and the mortality is also varying, with up to 100% mortality being reported in some outbreaks. Many outbreaks have been reported since the discovery of the NiV in 1999, with high concentrations of them being in the Asian continent. No speci c treatment is available, and the vaccine development is also under process/undergoing animal trials. Personal protective measures currently hold the key in the prevention of NiV infection. The recent outbreak in Kerala in India highlights the need for operationalization of an effective surveillance and response system at all time. At the same time, it also calls for greater focus on research and development of novel and effective diagnostic, vaccination and treatment strategies against Nipah virus.  

Keywords: Nipah; Emerging; Virus; India.