On Sunday, a 12-year-old kid from Kerala died of the Nipah virus. Two more people in the state have been recognized as having viral symptoms. The virus was initially discovered in Malaysia in 1990 and in India in 2001, when 45 individuals died.
Key Highlights
- On Sunday, a 12-year-old kid from Kerala died of the Nipah virus.
- Two more people in the state have been recognized as having viral symptoms.
- The virus was initially discovered in Malaysia in 1990 and in India in 2001, when 45 individuals died.
- It is not an airborne infection; rather, it is spread by bats and pigs.
- There is currently no vaccination available to aid in the successful treatment of this virus.
On Sunday, a 12-year-old kid from Kerala died of the Nipah virus. Nipah virus signs have been found in two more victims in the state. This has re-ignited interest in the lethal virus, which was first discovered in Malaysia in 1990 and has a high death rate. In India, it was initially discovered in Siliguri, West Bengal, in 2001, where 45 people perished. It was reported in numerous cases in Kerala in 2018. Nipah virus has a 40-80 percent case fatality rate and a two-week incubation period.
What exactly is the Nipah Virus?
Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic virus that is spread from animals to humans. It can also be spread through contaminated food or directly between people. It is spread by fruit bats. It can cause significant issues in those who are infected, such as acute respiratory disease and deadly encephalitis.
It is not an airborne infection; rather, it is spread by bats and pigs. It is lethal not only to people but also to animals.
Nipah Virus Symptoms
Those infected with the Nipah virus may experience symptoms similar to Covid. Cough, sore throat, dizziness, fatigue, muscle discomfort, exhaustion, and encephalitis, which causes a headache, stiff neck, sensitivity to light, mental disorientation, and convulsions, are all frequent symptoms of Nipah Virus. It is also possible to go unconscious, which can lead to death.
Treatment
For this virus, there is no specific treatment available. If you see any of the aforementioned symptoms, you should see a doctor very away. He or she will confirm the virus’s diagnosis and provide you with supportive care. In addition, the doctor will prescribe medication to treat encephalitis and other symptoms. Self-medication is dangerous and can aggravate your illness.
Precautions
Avoid eating contaminated fruits that have fallen to the ground, as well as coming into touch with diseased animals and humans. There is currently no vaccination available to aid in the successful treatment of this virus. Stay away from fruit bats, prevent pig feeding, and eat healthy. If you have any concerns about the symptoms, speak with your doctor.
