Kerala reported two positive cases of highly fatal Nipah virus in two districts. The state’s health department has stepped up vigilance, and Health Minister Veena George is overseeing all measures to prevent more cases. So far, a health alert has been issued in the districts of Kozhikode, Malappuram, and Palakkad. Around 461 people have been identified on the virus contact list. Scroll on to know more about this disease, its symptoms, and precautions to keep in mind.
Nipah Virus Alert Kerala & All You Need To Know About It
According to NDTV, 252 people from Malappuram district and 209 from Palakkad district are on the Nipah contact list in Kerala. Of these, 27 people are on the high-risk list. These people are currently undergoing treatment in Malappuram, Palakkad, Kozhikode, Kannur and Ernakulam districts, the state’s health department confirmed on Monday.
Understanding the severity of the matter, ambulance services, including the Kaniv 108 fleet, have been placed on standby near these areas. Authorities have also intensified fever surveillance in the affected areas, with special emphasis on providing psychological support to those under observation.
The Nipah virus is a highly lethal zoonotic virus, which means it can spread from animals to humans. It causes acute encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), severe respiratory distress, and, in many cases, can be fatal. It was first identified in Malaysia in 1999 and has since caused several deadly outbreaks in South and Southeast Asia. Back in 2018, the first outbreak in Kerala killed 17 people.
It spreads from fruit bats to humans. Reports suggest that contact with infected bats, especially their saliva or contaminated food, can transmit the virus. Human-to-human transmission is possible through respiratory droplets and bodily fluids.
Symptoms & Precautions Of This Virus
Nipah virus symptoms to watch out for –
1. Fever
2. Headache
3. Muscle pain
4. Dizziness
5. Drowsiness
6. Encephalitis (brain inflammation)
7. Seizures and confusion.
8. Respiratory issues, including cough and sore throat
While there is no vaccine for the Nipah virus yet, here are some precautions you can take to stay safe –
1. Avoid contact with sick animals.
2. Do not consume raw date palm sap and fruits bitten by bats.
3. Maintain good hygiene.
4. Avoid close contact with infected individuals.
5. Stay away from areas with reported outbreaks.
5. Cook meat and animal products thoroughly.
6. Seek medical help early, in case any symptom arises.
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The health department has urged people to stay alert, seek medical attention promptly if symptoms arise, and, most importantly, asked them not to panic.
Cover Image Courtesy: Canva Pro/Kittisak Kaewchalun