Nipah virus : A person infected with Nipah virus died in Kerala on Sunday. His age was just 24 years. State Health Minister Veena George gave this information. This is not the first time that Nipah virus has spread in Kerala. Earlier, its ravages were seen in 2018, 2021 and 2023. Now, the concern has increased further due to the outbreak of this virus.
No antiviral drugs or vaccines are yet available for the treatment of Nipah virus, so it is considered more dangerous. Only an attempt is 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 due to direct contact with infected animals or the fluid released from their bodies. It can also spread to humans by consuming fruits contaminated with the urine or saliva of infected bats. In many cases, the disease can be transmitted by pigs, goats, horses, and dogs. After infection with this virus, symptoms begin to appear after 4 to 14 days.
Symptoms of Nipah virus
cough-sore throat
diarrhea-vomiting
muscle pain
extreme weakness
difficulty breathing
Brain infection in severe cases
swelling of the head (encephalitis)
state of confusion and disorientation
wavering voice
convulsions, coma
How dangerous is the Nipah virus?
Nipah virus can be fatal to humans. According to the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 40 to 75 percent of patients infected with Nipah virus die. It can be more dangerous in populated and developing countries like India.
How is Nipah virus spread?
1. Nipah virus spreads mainly from animals to humans.
2. This virus can also spread from person to person, which is why it is necessary for those who treat and care for infected people to wear PPE kits.
Nipah virus treatment
1. Drink no less than 7 to 8 glasses of water a day.
2. Don’t neglect rest.
3. Take medication to prevent nausea or vomiting.
4. If breathing difficulties occur, use an inhaler or nebulizer on the advice of a doctor.
5. If you have seizures, your doctor may prescribe anticonvulsants.
6. Doctors may also administer treatment with monoclonal antibodies against Nipah virus.
If You Want to Avoid Nipah Virus, Do These Things
Wash your hands thoroughly with soap frequently.
Avoid contact with infected bats and pigs.
Do not go into trees where bats live.
If the trees the bats live on are palm trees, then avoid drinking the sap; if they are trees, then avoid eating fruits and vegetables.
Do not go where there are cases of Nipah virus.
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