Kerala Fights Nipah Virus Again in 2023– Signs, Symptoms, and Prevention.

Nipah Virus:

In the wake of two confirmed deaths due to the dreaded Nipah virus and four more suspected cases in Kerala’s Kozhikode district, health authorities are on high alert. To provide you with comprehensive information, we’ll delve into what Nipah is, its signs and symptoms, why these cases are causing alarm, and how to prevent the virus from spreading.

I. What is Nipah?

Nipah is a viral infection primarily affecting animals such as bats, pigs, dogs, and horses. It’s zoonotic, meaning it can jump to humans who come in contact with infected animals, causing serious disease.

II. Signs and Symptoms

Nipah infection typically presents with the following symptoms:

• Fever and brain swelling (encephalitis).
• Headache.
• Breathing difficulties.
• Cough and sore throat.
• Diarrhea.
• Vomiting.
• Muscle pain and severe weakness.
• In extreme cases, disorientation and seizures.

III. Why the Alarms?

The urgency lies in detecting cases early to prevent further spread. Nipah has a high Case Fatality Ratio (CFR), meaning a significant proportion of infected individuals die. In the 2018 Kerala outbreak, the CFR was a staggering 91%, in stark contrast to COVID-19’s current CFR of around 1.2% in India.

IV. Is Nipah a Fast-Spreading Virus?

Fortunately, Nipah is not as transmissible as COVID-19 or influenza. Dr. E. Sreekumar, director of the Institute of Advanced Virology-Thiruvananthapuram, explains that its previous history and the virus’s nature indicate slower transmission rates.

V. How Does Nipah Spread?

Nipah can infect humans through close contact with infected animals, their secretions, or contaminated fruit. It can also spread from person to person in close, enclosed environments. Researchers are still working to pinpoint the source of animal-to-human transmission.

VI. Protecting Ourselves

For now, the cases appear to be localized. People in the affected area should avoid close contact with the two index cases’ family members and contacts. Precautions like washing fruits thoroughly, discarding those with bat bites, and boiling palm sap or juice are also advised.

VII. Government’s Response

The local government has initiated contact tracing and quarantining of those in close contact with the infected individuals. Simultaneously, teams are investigating the source of the infection’s transmission.

VIII. How is Nipah Diagnosed?

Nipah can be confirmed through a real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test using nasal or throat swabs, cerebrospinal fluid, urine, and blood samples. The ELISA test can detect antibodies in the later stages or after recovery.

IX. Nipah Treatment

Currently, there are no specific antiviral medications for Nipah. Treatment involves symptomatic management, including rest, hydration, anti-nausea or vomiting medication, inhalers, nebulizers for breathing difficulties, and anti-seizure medication in severe cases. Researchers are exploring monoclonal antibody treatment.

X. Cure for Nipah?

Unfortunately, there is no vaccine or cure for Nipah virus at present.

XI. Geography of Nipah

Unlike neighboring Bangladesh, where Nipah is seasonal, India experiences fewer outbreaks. The first cases were reported in 2001 in West Bengal, which borders Bangladesh. Once infected, the odds of death with Nipah are alarmingly high.

Conclusion

While Nipah virus outbreaks are relatively rare in India, it’s crucial to remain informed about this deadly disease’s signs, symptoms, and preventive measures. Prompt detection and containment are essential in preventing further casualties.

FAQs

1. How is Nipah virus diagnosed?

• Nipah virus can be confirmed through a real-time polymerase chain reaction (RT-PCR) test using various samples.

1. Is there a cure for Nipah virus?

• Currently, there is no vaccine or specific antiviral medication to cure Nipah.

1. What is the geography of Nipah outbreaks in India?

• Nipah outbreaks are not common in India, unlike neighboring Bangladesh, where it is seasonal.

1. How does Nipah spread?

• Nipah can spread through close contact with infected animals, their secretions, or contaminated fruit. It can also spread from person to person in enclosed environments.

1. How would the government manage a Nipah outbreak?

• The government responds by initiating contact tracing, quarantining, and source investigation to prevent furt

To read other blog:https://www.amarujala.com/photo-gallery/lifestyle/fitness/nipah-virus-in-kerala-latest-update-in-hindi-what-is-nipah-virus-and-how-to-prevent-it-2023-09-12

To read more our blog:https://spotnews2023.com/index.php/2023/08/14/governments-generic-medicine/