Nipah Virus Alert: Kerala On High Alert As Bat Breeding Season Begins! Precautionary Measures To Keep Yourself Safe

Kerala is once again on high alert due to a possible outbreak of the deadly Nipah virus. With the bat breeding season approaching, the state's Health Department has initiated awareness campaigns in five districts considered hotspots for the zoonotic infection—Kozhikode, Malappuram, Kannur, Wayanad, and Ernakulam. These efforts aim to educate the public about the risks associated with the virus and to minimize the chances of an outbreak.

What is Nipah Virus?

The Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic pathogen and it spreads from animals to humans. According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the primary carriers of this virus are fruit bats, particularly those of the Pteropus genus. The virus can spread from animals to humans, from contaminated food, or through direct human-to-human transmission via respiratory droplets, much like the COVID-19 virus.

Once infected, a person may experience mild symptoms like fever, headache, cough, sore throat, and difficulty breathing. However, in severe cases, the virus can lead to fatal complications such as encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), which may cause disorientation, seizures, and even coma within 24 to 48 hours. The case fatality rate of Nipah virus infections is alarmingly high, ranging from 40 per cent to 75 per cent, depending on the virus strain and available healthcare facilities.

Why is Kerala a Hotspot for Nipah Virus Outbreaks?

Kerala has a history of battling multiple Nipah virus outbreaks. The worst outbreak occurred in 2023, when several people were infected, leading to multiple deaths. Experts believe that the state’s warm climate, dense fruit bat population, and close human-animal interactions contribute to its vulnerability to the virus.

Most reported outbreaks have occurred between May and September, aligning with the reproductive season of fruit bats. This period increases the risk of virus transmission, as infected bats shed the virus through their saliva, urine, and faeces, contaminating food and water sources.

Precautionary Measures Taken by the Government

To prevent another outbreak, the Kerala government has implemented several precautionary measures:

Symptoms and Treatment

Early symptoms of Nipah virus infection include fever, headache, cough, and respiratory issues. In severe cases, the infection can lead to encephalitis, causing confusion, drowsiness, seizures, and even coma.

Currently, there is no specific antiviral treatment or vaccine for Nipah virus infection. Doctors focus on supportive care, including managing symptoms and providing intensive medical attention in severe cases. Patients with severe symptoms often require hospitalization and close monitoring.

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