Nipah Virus : A person infected with Nipah virus died in Kerala on Sunday. He was only 24 years old. State Health Minister Veena George gave this information. This is not the first time that Nipah virus has spread in Kerala. Earlier, its havoc was seen in 2018, 2021 and 2023. Now once again the outbreak of this virus has increased the concern.
Till now there is no antiviral medicine or any vaccine available for the treatment of Nipah virus, hence it is considered more dangerous. Only efforts are made to reduce its symptoms. In such a situation, know what is Nipah virus, how it spreads and how to avoid it…
What is Nipah Virus?
According to WHO, Nipah is a zoonotic virus that spreads among both animals and humans. There is a high risk of spreading this virus by coming in direct contact with infected animals or liquids coming out of their bodies. It can also spread to humans by consuming fruits contaminated with the urine or saliva of infected bats. In many cases, it can spread from pigs, goats, horses and dogs. Symptoms of infection with this virus start appearing in 4 to 14 days.
Symptoms of Nipah Virus
cough-sore throat
Diarrhea-vomiting
Muscle pain
too much weakness
Difficulty in breathing
Brain infection in severe cases
Inflammation of the head (encephalitis)
a state of confusion and disorientation
faltering in voice
seizures, coma
how dangerous is nipah virus
Nipah virus can be fatal for humans. According to the US Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 40-75% of patients infected with Nipah virus die. It can be more dangerous in highly populated and developing countries like India.
How Nipah Virus Spreads
1. Nipah virus spreads mainly from animals to humans.
2. This virus can also spread from one person to another, that is why it is important for those treating and caring for the infected to wear PPE kit.
Nipah Virus Treatment
1. Do not drink less than 7-8 glasses of water a day.
2. Do not neglect resting.
Take medications to prevent nausea or vomiting.
4. If you have difficulty in breathing, use inhaler or nebulizer on doctor’s advice.
5. If seizures are occurring then the doctor can give anticonvulsants.
6. Doctors can also provide monoclonal antibody treatment for Nipah virus.
If you want to avoid Nipah virus then do these things
Clean your hands thoroughly with soap repeatedly.
Avoid contact with infected bats and pigs.
Don’t go to trees where bats live.
If the trees on which the bats live are palms then avoid drinking the juice, if they are trees then avoid eating fruits and vegetables.
Do not go to places where there are cases of Nipah virus.
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