Two Recent Deaths Spark Nipah Virus Alert in Kerala’s Kozhikode District
Following two reported deaths due to the Nipah virus in Kozhikode district, the Kerala Department of Health published a notice. Results from samples given to the National Institute of Virology in Pune for verification are anticipated shortly. Veena George, the minister of health, is keeping a vigilant eye on events.
Background of the Nipah Virus
The Nipah virus (NiV) is a disease that is zoonotic, that can spread from animals to people. Additionally, contaminated food or direct contact among individuals might spread it. In 2018, Kozhikode, India, announced the country’s first epidemic. Fruit bats are the main hosts of the virus, which has a strong infectious potential.
The signs and the Fatality rat
An infection with the Nipah virus can have a fatality rate of 40% to 75%. Severe instances might lead to coma in 24 to 48 hours, and in some cases, it might cause breathing problems, encephalitis, convulsions, and pneumonia. While managing such situations vigilance and early response are essential.
Transmission
Humans can contract the virus via pigs or bats, frequently from contaminated food sources. Additionally, it can spread directly among people, especially between close family members and caretakers. Prior outbreaks in the country have been linked to tainted bat saliva as well as urine.
Present Day Situation
In Kozhikode, two people with fever (encephalitis) have passed away, and four relatives with identical symptoms are receiving medical attention, one of whom is in serious condition. The deceased’s associates are being watched. In afflicted locations, limitations on social occasions and activities can be put in place if it is determined to be Nipah.
Precautions to Prevent the Transmission of the Nipah Virus
Safe Fruit Handling:
Consuming clean fruits is essential to breaking the linkage of transmission via bats to humans. Fruits should be checked for contamination or evidence of bat bites, and if detected, they should be thrown away right away.
Gloves:
Wearing gloves is strongly advised when handling creatures, particularly pigs and bats. This little procedure can greatly lower the danger of coming into contact with potentially infectious animals or surfaces.
Avoid Close Contact:
It’s critical to avoid having any close physical interactions with anyone who has been diagnosed with Nipah illness. To stop the spread of diseases from person to person, it is essential to keep a safe distance.
Regular Hand Washing:
Wash your hands frequently with the help of water and soap, particularly if there is an outbreak nearby. Given that the virus may spread through coming into contact with contaminated surfaces, maintaining good hand hygiene is an easy yet successful way to stop the transmission of the disease.
People can actively participate in stopping the future spread of the Nipah virus by following these safety measures and staying up-to-date on the most recent updates and advice from health authorities. Effective epidemic management and containment depend on community vigilance and responsible behavior.
Article By Deby T
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