Nipah Virus
The Nipah virus has added headache to Kerala at present. Because, a 14-year-old boy has recently been found infected with Nipah virus in Kerala. The boy is currently undergoing treatment at the Kozhikode Medical College and the Kerala government has become active.
Malappuram | NIV Pune has confirmed that the suspected case of a 14-year-old boy is Nipah positive. A contact list of the boys will be prepared and the samples of those in a high-risk category will be sent for testing. A meeting will be held with the district collector and…
— ANI (@ANI) July 20, 2024
In the past few years, few people have died due to Nipah infection in the state of Kerala. So, now again the concern of the citizens has increased as this virus has reared its head again. What exactly is Nipah virus? Where is it found? And what are its symptoms? So let’s find out.
What is the Nipah Virus?
The Nipah virus is a dangerous zoonotic virus, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. It is primarily spread by fruit bats, also known as flying foxes. However, the virus can also be transmitted from other animals such as pigs, goats, horses, dogs, or cats.
Where is the Nipah Virus Found?
The Nipah virus is primarily found in fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family, particularly those belonging to the Pteropus genus. These bats are found in many parts of Southeast Asia and the Pacific Islands. The virus is present in the bats’ urine and saliva, and it can be spread to humans through contact with bat droppings or contaminated food or water.
Also read this: What is Chandipura virus? What are the symptoms and Prevention? Panic in Gujarat.
Outbreaks of Nipah virus infection
Outbreaks of Nipah virus infection typically occur in areas where people have close contact with bats. These outbreaks have been reported in several countries, including:
• Bangladesh: Nipah virus infection is endemic in Bangladesh, with outbreaks occurring almost annually.
• India: Outbreaks of Nipah virus infection have been reported in several Indian states, including Kerala, West Bengal, and Uttar Pradesh.
• Malaysia: The first major outbreak of Nipah virus infection occurred in Malaysia in 1998-1999.
• Singapore: A smaller outbreak of Nipah virus infection occurred in Singapore in 1999.
• Other countries: Outbreaks of Nipah virus infection have also been reported in Cambodia, Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand.
Risk factors for Nipah virus infection
The following factors increase the risk of Nipah virus infection:
• Living in or visiting areas where the virus is known to be present
• Having close contact with bats
• Eating uncooked or undercooked fruits that may have been contaminated with bat droppings
• Having close contact with an infected person
How is the Nipah Virus Spread?
The Nipah virus is typically spread through contact with the bodily fluids of infected animals, such as their blood, urine, feces, or saliva. This can happen in several ways:
• Direct contact: Coming into direct contact with an infected animal or its bodily fluids. This can happen through bites, scratches, or exposure to contaminated clothing or bedding.
• Indirect contact: Eating contaminated food, such as fruits that have been bat-droppings.
• Person-to-person transmission: In rare cases, the Nipah virus can be transmitted from person to person through close contact with an infected person’s respiratory secretions.
Symptoms of Nipah Virus Infection
Symptoms of Nipah virus infection can range from mild to severe and can include:
• Fever
• Headache
• Muscle pain
• Vomiting
• Dizziness
• Drowsiness
• Confusion
• Seizures
• Coma
In severe cases, the virus can cause encephalitis, an inflammation of the brain that can lead to death.
Also read this: The Mythological Tale of Guru Purnima and The Birth and Early Life of Sage Vyasa.
Treatment for Nipah Virus Infection
There is no specific treatment for Nipah virus infection. Treatment focuses on supportive care, such as managing fever, dehydration, and seizures. Some antiviral medications may also be used. The mortality rate for Nipah virus infection is high, ranging from 40% to 75%.
Prevention of Nipah Virus Infection
There is no vaccine available to prevent Nipah virus infection. However, there are several steps that can be taken to reduce the risk of infection:
• Avoid contact with bats: Do not handle or eat bats. If you must come into contact with bats, wear gloves and a mask.
• Wash fruits and vegetables thoroughly: Wash all fruits and vegetables thoroughly before eating, especially those that may have been exposed to bats.
• Cook food thoroughly: Cook all meat and animal products thoroughly to kill any potential viruses.
• Practice good hygiene: Wash your hands frequently with soap and water, especially after contact with animals or their bodily fluids.
• Avoid close contact with sick people: If you are in contact with someone who is sick, avoid close contact and wear a mask.
The Nipah virus is a serious health threat, but it is important to remember that it is not easily transmitted from person to person. By taking precautions, such as avoiding contact with bats and pigs, and practicing good hygiene, you can reduce your risk of infection.
Also read this:
• Zika Virus is also spread through sexual intercourse; Care to be taken by couples
