As a boy died due to Nipah virus attack in Kerala, the state government has taken various measures to control it. How does Nipah virus spread? What are the consequences? Let’s see about that.
Nipah virus belongs to ZOONOTIC DISEASE category. That means it can spread from animals to humans, just like the corona virus. Nipah virus is likely to be spread through fruit eaten by bats. The virus is spread by consuming unsanitary food or by direct contact with an infected person.
Nipah infection is divided into three types: asymptomatic infection, severe respiratory infection, and encephalitis.
Nipah symptoms start appearing 4 to 14 days after infection.
Symptoms like fever, headache, muscle pain, cough, vomiting and sore throat occur in the initial stage.
Later serious effects such as fainting, insomnia, neurological problems, respiratory problems, mental problems, pneumonia, coma may occur.
Those with symptoms and those who have been in contact with them should be quarantined for 21 days. They should undergo immediate medical examination. Nuts and fruits should be washed well and used. People should avoid going to wells, caves, gardens and dark places.
Health workers examining patients should wear appropriate protective equipment. Blood, throat mucus and urine samples should be tested. Samples taken from patients should be stored at 2 to 8°C and sent to the laboratory within 48 hours. The results of the test should be reported to the health department immediately.
A person infected with Nipah virus is more likely to die. Currently there is no vaccine to prevent Nipah virus. Also there is no separate treatment for this.
