New Delhi, September 17: A new outbreak of the deadly Nipah virus has gripped the southern Indian state of Kerala, prompting authorities to impose strict measures to contain its spread. The second confirm death from the virus has reported. while masks have made mandatory in affected areas and schools have ordered to close.
The 24-year-old man, a native of Malappuram, had died on September 9 after reaching Kerala from Karnataka’s Bengaluru. After his death, his available samples sent for testing to the Kozhikode Medical college hospital laboratory.
Veena George said the suspicion of Nipah infection arose after a death investigation conducted by the Regional Medical Officer, according to a news agency PTI report. The results from National Institute of Virology (NIV) Pune on Sunday confirmed the infection.
What Is Nipah Virus: How Does It Spread?
Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease that can transmitted from animals to humans. It often associated with fruit bats, which can spread the virus through their saliva and urine. Humans can also contract the virus through direct contact with infected animals or through contaminated food or water.
The symptoms of Nipah virus infection can vary widely, but often include fever, headache, cough, vomiting, and diarrhea. In severe cases, the virus can cause brain inflammation, seizures, and coma. The mortality rate for Nipah virus infections is high, and there is no specific treatment available.
To prevent the further spread of the virus, the Kerala government has implemented a series of measures. These measures include:
To limit movement and contact, businesses allowed to operate only between 10 am and 7 pm. With the exception of essential services such as milk distribution, newspapers and vegetable sales, which may begin from 6 am.
Masks mandatory: Masks have made mandatory in public places in Malappuram district.
Schools closed: Schools in the affected areas have ordered to close temporarily.
Contact tracing: Health officials are conducting extensive contact tracing to identify individuals who may have exposed to the virus.
Quarantine: People who have come into contact with infected individuals are being quarantined.
Disinfection: Public places being disinfected regularly.
Awareness campaigns: The government is conducting awareness campaigns to educate the public about the risks of Nipah virus infection and the preventive measures that can be taken.
Entertainment venues, including cinema theatres, have ordered to remain closed. And educational institutions such as schools, colleges, madarsas, Anganwadis. And tuition centres have directed to suspend all activities until further notice.
Medical stores excluded from these operating hours.
The outbreak of Nipah virus in Kerala has caused widespread concern and fear among the local population. Many people are worried about the potential for the virus to spread further and cause a major health crisis.
Health officials are working tirelessly to contain the outbreak and prevent the virus from spreading to other parts of the state. However, the situation remains serious, and there is a need for continued vigilance and cooperation from the public.
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The Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala is a stark reminder of the ongoing threat posed by emerging infectious diseases. It is essential for governments and health organizations to prepared to respond to such outbreaks quickly and effectively.