Nipah Virus: Two deaths in Kerala; Team of experts called by center.
Two “unnatural deaths” were reported from Kozhikode for which the Kerala Health Minister called a high-level meeting on Tuesday. There are concerns for the same over the Nipah Virus.
The deaths were caused by Nipah Virus as confirmed by the Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya. A team of experts has been sent to assist the government in the management and containment of Nipah virus infection.
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 has been detected in the Kozhikode district of Kerala.
Central Government has rushed a team to Kerala to support the State in public health measures and provide technical support.https://t.co/DAetTt3yL6
— Dr Mansukh Mandaviya (@mansukhmandviya) September 5, 2021
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.
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These deaths due to the Nipah Virus were reported in 2018 and 2021 respectively. The samples have been sent to the National Institute of Virology, Pune for testing. As of now, there are no further reports of the same as the samples are processing as stated in the statement from them:
“We expect the results within an hour or two. We have, however, taken all necessary precautions in case the results return positive. We have labs in the state where we can test the samples but we cannot make the declaration. The declaration can only be made by the Pune NIV.”
Course of Actions
The government of Kerala has advised people to wear masks and has also set up a control room in Kozhikode. The Kerala Health Minister, Veena Geroge said the following:
“We have opened a control room here. To coordinate the precautionary measures, we have formed 16 committees, and all the hospitals and the health workers have been instructed to follow the infection control protocol including wearing of PPE kits,”
She has also advised everyone to avoid unnecessary hospital visits. Till then, everyone is requested to cooperate and follow proper precautions.
