Nipah viruses killed a 14 years teen boy in Kerala from Pandikkad (Malappuram). The Kerala health department said in statement that 214 individuals who had contact with teenager are under observation.
Under working Indian Councils of Medical Research (ICMR), National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune confirmed the infection. The boy was in critical condition and had shifted to the Kozhidke Medical College Hospital said the State Health Ministry Veena George.
She also said that the timings of the child’s travel will be released with the route map. People who travelled with the child should inform the department using Nipah control rooms. The control room will assist people with tests and clear their concerns.
Kerala health ministry said that among 214 individuals who had contact with the teenager, 60 are considered under high risk and the sample from these group will be collected and tested promptly. The district collector, police chief and other officials will meet to decide whether to impose restrictions within 3 kilometers radius of outbreak’s epicentre. Earlier in 2018 total 17 people from Kozhikode and Malappuram districts died due to the Nipah Virus.
What is Nipah VIrus?
Nipah Virus is bat-borne, Zoonotic viruses (transmitted from animals to humans) that causes a Nipah virus infection in human as well as animals. Nipah Viruse have high mortality rate and several seath occur in South East Africa and Southeast Asia.
Symptoms:
In initial few days, contaminated people get fever, headache and muscle pain. The symptoms period ranging from 5 to 14 days post-exposure.
As the diseases developed in people, symptoms can escalate to brain inflammation, seizures and confusion. Respiratory issues may be happen that include cough and sore throat. In several cases, the virus can lead to coma and death.
Causes:
It can spread from bats to humans; contact with infected bats, their saliva or contaminated food can transmit the virus. In several cases human to human transmission has also been seen, particularly through respiratory droplets and bodily fluids.
Treatment:
Till yet, there is no specific antiviral treatment available for the deadly Nipah Virus. Health officials now only focus on supportive care including maintaining fluid and electrolyte balance.
Prevention:
Strictly follow the health ministry rules and regulations. The World Health Organization recommends to minimise contact with fruit bats and pigs, especially in outbreak areas. Ensured food is thoroughly cooked and do not consume raw or partially cooked fruits. Always maintain good hygiene practices in your daily-life.