Nipah Virus Alert In Kerala, Two Deaths Reported: Tips To Stay Safe From Nipah Disease

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Nipah virus alert in Kerala after two deaths reported in Kozhikode district. This is the fourth Nipah outbreak in Kerala since 2018. There have been several outbreaks of Nipah virus in Kerala, some of which have been traced to fruit bats.

The National Institute of Virology, Pune, confirmed the first case of Nipah virus in Kerala in May 2018.

Nipah Outbreak In Kerala 2023: Important Points

• On Wednesday, the Kerala government revealed that the brain-damaging Nipah virus, which has killed two of the four people infected, is a strain of the Bangladesh variant that is spread from person to person.
• Health Minister Veena George said the variant had a high mortality rate but was less infectious and confirmed that recent "unnatural deaths" in the state's Kozhikode district were caused by it.
• As part of its containment policy, the Kozhikode administration has declared seven village panchayats as containment zones.
• Those in containment areas have been asked to wear masks, use hand sanitisers, and maintain social distance.

Nipah Virus Alert In Kerala: Tips To Stay Safe

Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic virus, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. It is primarily carried by fruit bats and can spread to humans through direct contact with infected animals or contaminated materials.

Human-to-human transmission is also possible, making it a concern.

Here are some expert tips to stay safe from Nipah disease:

1. Avoid close contact with animals

• Do not touch or consume bats or their droppings.
• Avoid consuming fruits that may have been bitten by bats.

2. Practice good hygiene

• Frequent handwashing with soap and water for at least 20 seconds is essential.
• Use hand sanitisers with at least 60% alcohol when soap and water are not available.

3. Wear protective gear

• If you are a healthcare worker or in close contact with potentially infected individuals, use personal protective equipment (PPE) like masks, gloves, and gowns.

4. Isolation

• If someone shows symptoms like fever, cough, and difficulty breathing, isolate them from others and seek medical attention immediately.
• Follow all health protocols recommended by healthcare professionals.

5. Avoid crowded places

• Minimise your exposure to large gatherings and crowded places.
• Practice physical distancing to reduce the risk of transmission.

6. Stay updated and informed

• Stay updated with information from reliable sources like the World Health Organization (WHO) and local health authorities.
• Follow government advisories and guidelines.

Disclaimer: The information provided in this article is for general informational and educational purposes only and is not intended as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the advice of your physician or a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.