Kerala is going against the fourth outbreak of Nipah Virus, the first one being in 2018. There is no vaccine for Nipah virus and it has killed up to 75% of those who were infected.
Further, this outbreak has also led to the creation of containment zones like Covid across the Panchayats. Tracing of contacts has been going on since 2 deaths were reported in the state. Also, 5 more patients are undergoing treatment in hospitals against the Nipah Virus. Healthcare workers are being seen around shifting people who were in contact with infected persons similar to Covid.
About Nipah Virus
The World Health Organization (WHO) defines Nipah virus infection as a zoonotic disease. This means it can be transmitted from animals to humans and can also spread through contaminated food or direct person-to-person contact.
Nipah virus infection can lead to a variety of illnesses in those who are infected, ranging from no apparent symptoms (subclinical) to acute respiratory issues and potentially fatal encephalitis. Additionally, this virus can cause severe illnesses in animals, particularly pigs, leading to substantial economic losses for farmers, as noted by the WHO.
Nipah Virus in Kerala Updates & Actions so far
The following are the actions taken by the authorities along with updates on the same:
Nipah virus | Kerala Health Minister Veena George says, "On the night of the day before itself, the Health Department held a high-level meeting and all higher officials went to Kozhikode. On the basis of the protocols, 16 committees have been formed…75 rooms have been prepared… pic.twitter.com/gwMN325m1y
— ANI (@ANI) September 13, 2023
- Containment zones were established within a five-kilometer radius of the homes of two Nipah virus victims who died on August 30 and September 11.
- Kerala sent 11 samples for testing, which came back negative for the Nipah virus, providing some relief.
- Samples from 15 high-risk contacts have also been sent for testing.
- A team of experts from various medical institutions is stationed in Kerala to help manage the Nipah situation.
- The Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) delivered monoclonal antibodies to combat the virus, although their efficacy hasn’t been proven yet.
- A mobile Biosafety Level-3 (BSL-3) laboratory was sent to test virus samples in the affected district.
- Kerala plans to take body-fluid samples from all high-risk contacts of the first Nipah victim.
- Rajasthan is on alert after Nipah cases were reported in Kerala.
The authorities are taking required actions along with healthcare workers working day in and day out to curb the spread of the Nipah Virus. Till then, everyone is requested to cooperate and follow proper precautions.
