In the southern state of Kerala, the infection of the Nipah virus troubled people a lot in the months of June-July this year. Given the danger, an alert was issued in many cities. After about three months, this infectious disease has once again raised concerns in the state. According to recent information, a 24-year-old youth died of infection in Malappuram on September 9.
Kerala Health Minister Veena George said on Sunday (September 15) that the deceased was tested at the National Institute of Virology in Pune, where the Nipah virus was confirmed in him. Apart from this, about 151 people are suspected to have come in contact with the patient, and they are being monitored.
It is worth noting that this is the second case of death due to Nipah infection in Kerala this year. Earlier in July, a 14-year-old boy died. The Health Minister said all necessary steps are being taken to prevent infection. People have been appealed to remain cautious.
What does the Health Minister say?
According to the information shared by the state's Health Minister, this case of death was on September 9, before this, he was treated in four private hospitals. Given this incident, all the high-risk category people in the state have been asked to stay in isolation. Out of the 151 possible people who came in contact, five were showing symptoms, their samples have also been sent for testing. Apart from this, contact tracing work is being done rapidly so that any other case can be prevented.
Kerala has been a high-risk state.
It is worth noting that Nipah is a zoonotic disease that spreads from animals like pigs and bats to humans. Apart from infection from animals to humans, other people can also be at risk from the infected person. Its mortality rate has been considered to be 45-75 percent. The state of Kerala has been continuously in the grip of this infection since the year 2018.
Health experts say this infection can cause serious health complications in many cases. In severe cases, it can cause encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), which is believed to increase the risk of coma and death.
More dangerous than corona
Health experts say Nipah is considered an infectious disease more dangerous than corona in many cases. Nipah carries the risk of problems like encephalitis and its mortality rate has also been very high. Bats are considered to be the main cause of Nipah virus communication. It can spread to humans through fruits or other food contaminated by bats. Health experts say, to clean fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating them. Do not eat fruits bitten by birds.
There are no specific treatments or vaccines for Nipah yet. Monoclonal antibodies are somewhat effective in reducing its risks.
Advice to prevent infection
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), regular cleaning of hands, cleaning fruits and vegetables thoroughly, and avoiding travel to affected areas can be ways to reduce the risk of Nipah. The Nipah virus mainly attacks the lungs and brain. Its symptoms can range from cough and sore throat to gastrointestinal problems like rapid breathing, fever, nausea and vomiting.
The risk of transmission from bats to humans is high, so avoid going to places where there are more bats.
Keep trying to avoid close contact with sick animals or infected people. Gloves and other protective clothing should be worn.
Close physical contact with patients infected with Nipah virus should be avoided.
(PC: ISTOCK)
