The World Health Organisation has reportedly listed the Nipah virus as one of 16 priority pathogens that need to be researched due to their potential to spark an epidemic. Scientists are worried about the brain-swelling Nipah disease, which has a death rate of up to 75%, potentially becoming the next 'big' virus. The mortality rate of Nipah ranges between 40 to 75%, far higher than the 1% rate for coronavirus, according to the World Health Organisation. A total of 260 viruses have been epidemic potential, experts found. "We know that a future pandemic is inevitable, and there are many other emerging infectious diseases that are recognised as having pandemic potential."

Source: Standard Digital February 20, 2021 08:26 UTC