Nipah Virus Strikes Again Kerala on High Alert

Published: September 19, 2024

Kerala, India –Kerala has had an outbreak of the Nipah virus, which is the sixth epidemic of the illness since 2018.

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The latest victim, a 24-year-old student from Malappuram district, succumbed to the virus on September 9th

This incident has prompted health officials to place the state on high alert.

Fever, headache, muscle pain, and sore throat were followed by severe respiratory and neurological symptoms.

Over 150 individuals who had contact with the victim are under observation

The district collector has declared several containment zones and imposed restrictions, including mandatory mask-wearing and limited shop hours

The Kozhikode Medical College confirmed the Nipah virus infection, which was later verified by the National Institute of Virology in Pune.

#WATCH | Delhi | On Nipah virus, Kerala Health Minister Veena George says, “We have found that the death of a student in Malappuram was due to Nipah virus.26 of the 75 contacts of this person are in the high-risk category. 13 of the 26 persons have tested negative. We have… pic.twitter.com/YZREyqTb4p

— ANI (@ANI) September 17, 2024

What is the Nipah Virus?

As zoonotic, the Nipah virus can spread from animals to humans. Originally discovered in Malaysia in 1998, its fatality rate is rather high—estimated to be as high as 75%. Fruit bats, pigs, contaminated foods, or direct human-to-human contact are the main means of viral transmission.

Among the early symptoms are headaches, sore throat, vomiting, and muscular aches.

These might develop worse and cause encephalitis as well as major breathing difficulties. There are not any specific vaccines or therapies for the Nipah virus at this period.

To avoid getting sick, stay away from sick animals and people who are already infected, and practice good cleanliness.