Infodemiological Study of Internet Search Pattern Related to Nipah Outbreaks in Bangladesh (Jan 2018-Jul 2023): A Google Trend Analysis

Introduction: Nipah virus is a fatal bat-borne pathogen that follows a seasonality from December to May in Bangladesh. Since 2001, Nipah outbreaks have been reported annually in Bangladesh. However, in early 2023, there has been an occurrence of a series of outbreaks here. This study aims to investigate the infodemiological aspect of this series of Nipah outbreaks by analyzing the Google search interest in Bangladesh. Methods: The “Explore” feature of Google Trends was utilized to analyze search behavior focusing on the topics "Nipah virus infection" and "Date Juice" in Bangladesh from January 2018 to July 2023. Data from Nipah outbreaks during the same period was obtained. Correlation analysis was done between Relative Search Volume (RSV) and outbreak frequency, and spatial analysis to compare heat maps showing RSV and outbreaks. Results: A line graph depicting the relative search volume (RSV) of Nipah virus infection reveals fluctuations in public interest, with spikes following outbreak events and during the Nipah season. Similarly, the RSV of "Date Juice" showcases changing patterns, occasionally aligning with Nipah outbreaks. Pearson correlation analysis indicates moderate positive correlations between Nipah-related RSVs and outbreaks, with p-values < 0.01, underscoring the link between public interest and outbreak frequency. Heat maps depict regional variations, with higher RSV regions coinciding with reported outbreaks. Conclusion: The study found that RSV of both “Nipah Virus Infection” and “Date Juice” increased with the frequency of Nipah Outbreaks. We recommend continuous monitoring of health information regarding Nipah and other important public health issues.