“A case of Nipah virus has been detected in Malappuram district of Kerala. A 14-year-old boy from Malappuram exhibited AES symptoms and was admitted to a healthcare facility in Perinthalmanna before being transferred to a higher health center in Kozhikode.However, the patient later succumbed to the disease. The samples were sent to NIV, Pune which has confirmed a Nipah virus infection,” Govt of India said in a press release.
The patient exhibited signs of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) like sudden onset of fever and clinical signs of neurological dysfunction. Common symptoms include altered mental status, confusion, disorientation, and seizures. In severe cases, patients may experience coma and paralysis.
What is the Nipah virus?
Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus that can cause severe illness in both animals and humans. It was first identified during an outbreak in Malaysia in 1998-1999 among pig farmers and those in close contact with pigs. The virus is named after the village in Malaysia where the first outbreak occurred.
Nipah virus belongs to the family Paramyxoviridae, genus Henipavirus. Fruit bats of the Pteropodidae family, particularly species belonging to the Pteropus genus, are natural hosts of the virus. The virus can spread to humans through direct contact with infected bats, pigs, or other infected individuals.
Nipah outbreak in Kerala; how to stay safe
Symptoms to note
The incubation period of Nipah virus ranges from 4 to 14 days after exposure. Initial symptoms resemble those of influenza, including fever, headache, muscle pain, and sore throat. This can progress to drowsiness, disorientation, and mental confusion.
In severe cases, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) and respiratory issues such as coughing and difficulty breathing may occur. Seizures and coma have been reported in some cases, with a high mortality rate, ranging from 40% to 75%, depending on the outbreak and healthcare infrastructure.
Prevention tips
Nipah virus primarily spreads through close contact with infected animals or humans through bodily fluids like saliva, urine and / or blood. Eating contaminated food products is a significant mode of transmission in some outbreaks.
- Avoid handling bats or entering areas where bats are known to roost.
- Wash hands frequently with soap and water, especially after handling animals or caring for sick individuals.
- Cook meat and other animal products thoroughly before consumption.
- Healthcare workers should use appropriate personal protective equipment (PPE) when caring for Nipah virus patients to prevent transmission.
- During outbreaks, affected individuals should be isolated and quarantined to prevent further spread of the virus.
