The Kerala Health Department has issued a well being alert in Kozhikode district after two “unnatural” deaths by suspected Nipah virus an infection have been reported on August 30 and September 11. Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus that has been answerable for outbreaks of extreme respiratory and neurological illness in people the place the chance elements and causes of Nipah virus transmission are primarily linked to its origin in fruit bats and subsequent spillover into different animals and people.

Risk Factors of Nipah Virus:

In an interview with HT Lifestyle, Dr Aniket Mule, Consultant Internal Medicine at Wockhardt Hospitals in Mumbai's Mira Road, listed the causes as -

1. Fruit Bat Reservoir: Fruit bats, notably the Pteropus genus, are pure hosts of Nipah virus. Their excretions and saliva might include the virus, and direct contact with these bats or consumption of fruits contaminated by their saliva can result in transmission.

2. Intermediate Hosts: The virus will be transmitted to people through intermediate hosts reminiscent of pigs. Close contact with contaminated pigs or their contaminated tissues may end up in human an infection.

3. Human-to-Human Transmission: In some circumstances, Nipah virus can unfold from individual to individual via shut contact, particularly inside healthcare settings. This mode of transmission poses a big threat throughout outbreaks.

Symptoms of Nipah Virus:

Dr Aniket Mule revealed, “The symptoms of Nipah virus infection can vary from mild to severe and may include fever, headache, dizziness, cough, and in severe cases, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) leading to altered consciousness, seizures, and coma. Respiratory symptoms can also occur.”

Treatment for Nipah Virus:

According to Dr Aniket Mule, there is no such thing as a particular antiviral therapy for Nipah virus an infection. He stated, “Supportive care is essential, including maintaining respiratory function, managing fever and pain, and providing intravenous fluids. Experimental treatments and antiviral drugs have been explored in some cases, but their efficacy remains uncertain. Given the serious nature of Nipah virus and the potential for outbreaks, it is crucial to follow guidelines and recommendations from public health authorities and seek immediate medical attention if suspected cases arise. Additionally, research and surveillance efforts continue to deepen our understanding of this virus and may lead to improved treatment options in the future.”