Kerala Health Minister Veena George has confirmed another case of the Nipah virus in Kozhikode. This brings the total number of infections in the state to five. The infected person is a 24-year-old health worker from a private hospital in Kozhikode.
Contact List and Risk Levels
Currently, 706 people are on the contact list, including 77 in the high-risk category and 153 health workers. Thankfully, no one in the high-risk group is showing symptoms right now.
People Under Observation
Thirteen people with mild symptoms like headaches are currently in the hospital under observation.
Stay at Home for High-Risk Contacts
The government advises high-risk contacts to stay at home to prevent the spread of the virus.
Government’s Response
The Kerala government has set up 19 core committees to coordinate efforts to control the virus. Local volunteer teams are helping deliver essential items to those in isolation.
Deaths So Far
The Nipah virus has sadly claimed two lives in Kerala.
Proactive Detection
The state is focusing on early detection of infections before they’re confirmed in labs. They’re monitoring symptoms to issue alerts in advance.
Containment Zones
Seven village panchayats in Kozhikode district have been declared as containment zones to limit the virus’s spread.
Online Classes for Students
Education Minister V Sivankutty has directed the organization of online classes for students in containment zones so they can continue their studies from home.
What is Nipah Virus?
Nipah virus (NiV) is a virus that can jump from animals like bats or pigs to humans. It can also spread through contaminated food or directly from person to person.
Symptoms of Nipah Virus
People infected with Nipah virus can have various symptoms, from mild to severe. It can cause fever, headaches, muscle pain, vomiting, and sore throat. In severe cases, it can lead to dizziness, altered consciousness, and even coma.
Incubation Period
The time from infection to the start of symptoms can vary from 4 to 45 days.
Outcomes
Nipah virus can be deadly, with a fatality rate ranging from 40% to 75%. Survivors may face long-term neurological problems, including seizures and personality changes.
It’s important for everyone to stay informed and take precautions to prevent the spread of this virus.