The neurological manifestations of Nipah virus encephalitis, a novel paramyxovirus

A novel Hendra-like paramyxovirus named Nipah virus (NiV) was the cause of an outbreak among workers from one abattoir who had contact with pigs. Two patients had only respiratory symptoms, while 9 patients had encephalitis, 7 of whom are described in this report. Neurological involvement was divers e and multifocal, including aseptic meningitis, diffuse encephalitis, and f ocal brainstem involvement. Cerebellar signs were relatively common. Magnet ic resonance imaging scans of the brain showed scattered lesions. IgM antib odies against Hendra virus (HeV) were present in the serum of all patients. Two patients recovered completely. Five had residual deficits 8 weeks late r.