In light of the increasing Nipah virus infections, Kerala’s Health Minister Veena George stated that the virus strain detected in Kerala is the Bangladesh variant, which is known to spread from human to human and has a higher mortality rate, although it is less contagious. The Health Minister confirmed on Tuesday that two individuals had died at a private hospital in Kozhikode on Monday due to a Nipah infection.
One adult and one child are still infected and undergoing treatment in the hospital. So far, over 130 people have been tested for the virus, which spreads to humans through direct contact with infected bats, pigs, or other individuals’ bodily fluids, according to an official statement from the Kerala Health Ministry.
Seven Gram Panchayats in Kerala’s Kozhikode district – Atancheri, Maruthonkara, Thiruvallur, Kuttikkattoor, Kayakkodi, Villyappalli, and Kavilumpara – have been declared as containment zones.
Teams from the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune, will arrive in Kerala during the day to conduct Nipah testing and surveil bats. The state government announced this in the legislature on Wednesday. Stay informed about the virus here.”
How is the Nipah Virus caused?
Understanding the Causes of Nipah Virus Infection
Nipah virus, a relatively rare but deadly virus, has garnered attention due to recent outbreaks in various parts of the world, including Kerala, India. To better understand this virus, let’s dive into how it is caused and transmitted.
Origins of Nipah Virus:
Nipah virus (NiV) was first identified in 1999 during an outbreak in Malaysia and Singapore. It gets its name from the village of Sungai Nipah in Malaysia, where the virus was initially discovered. The natural reservoir of Nipah virus is fruit bats (flying foxes), which are found in various regions of Asia, including India. These bats can carry the virus without showing any symptoms.
Transmission to Humans:
The primary mode of transmission of Nipah virus to humans is through direct contact with infected animals, especially fruit bats. People can become infected when they come into contact with bat urine, saliva, or other bodily fluids. Consuming fruits that have been partially eaten by infected bats can also lead to transmission.
Human-to-Human Transmission:
One of the most concerning aspects of Nipah virus is its potential for human-to-human transmission. Close contact with an infected person’s respiratory secretions, saliva, or urine can spread the virus. This makes healthcare workers and family members of infected individuals particularly vulnerable.
Symptoms and Disease:
Nipah virus infection can cause a range of symptoms, including fever, headache, dizziness, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, it can lead to encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), which can result in coma or death. The incubation period can vary but generally ranges from 4 to 14 days.
Preventive Measures:
Preventing Nipah virus infection involves taking several precautions. These include:
- Avoiding Close Contact: Stay away from sick individuals and avoid close contact with bats or their habitats.
- Hygiene: Practice good hygiene, including regular handwashing with soap and water.
- Avoiding Raw Fruits: Do not consume fruits that may have been exposed to bats, especially if they have visible bite marks.
- Protection for Healthcare Workers: Healthcare workers should use appropriate protective gear when caring for Nipah-infected patients.
- Quarantine Measures: Isolate infected individuals to prevent further spread of the virus.
- Vaccination and Medications: Researchers are actively working on vaccines and medications for Nipah virus, but none are currently widely available.
In conclusion, Nipah virus is caused by contact with infected animals, primarily fruit bats. It can then spread from person to person through close contact, posing a serious health risk. Understanding its causes and taking preventive measures are crucial in controlling its spread and protecting public health. Stay informed and follow health guidelines to stay safe.
