By Chhavi Dua
CNBC-TV18.com
Published July 26, 2024
Kerala Health Minister Veena George announced on July 25 that 8 contacts of the deceased 14-year-old Nipah virus patient have tested negative. The boy from Malappuram died on July 21. So far, 66 samples have returned negative. Here's all you need to know about Nipah virus:
Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus with a high fatality rate, transmissible from animals to humans and between people.
Early symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain, and sore throat. Severe cases may lead to dizziness, drowsiness, and encephalitis.
Avoid close contact with infected individuals, wash hands regularly, use PPE, avoid raw date palm sap, and wash fruits thoroughly.
The PTI reported that the Kerala government is monitoring the situation, setting up isolation wards, and conducting contact tracing. Public awareness campaigns are intensified.
Travelers to and from affected areas should take precautions. Symptomatic individuals should seek medical attention and inform healthcare providers of their travel history.
Local communities are educated on hygiene and symptom reporting. Cooperation between healthcare workers and the public is crucial.
Hospitals are equipped to manage cases, and healthcare workers are trained for emergencies. Continuous monitoring and timely intervention are key.