Kozhikode/Hyderabad, Sept 16 (Hydnow) Kerala is facing a severe health crisis as the Nipah virus re-emerges, with four reported cases and two tragic fatalities. Recognizing the gravity of the situation, authorities have sounded the alarm in Kannur, Wayanad, and Malappuram. Seven-gram panchayats in the region have been designated as containment zones, where the use of masks is now compulsory, extending to local hospitals as well.
In response to the outbreak, the District Magistrate of Kozhikode has ordered the immediate closure of all educational institutions, Anganwadi centers, banks, and government offices within the aforementioned seven panchayats. Only shops selling medicines and essential goods are permitted to operate between 7 am and 5 pm to ensure essential services continue.
A specialized team from the National Institute of Virology (NIV) has been dispatched to Kerala to investigate the Nipah virus and conduct a comprehensive bat survey at Kozhikode Medical College.
Advertisements
Nipah virus is a zoonotic infection, primarily transmitted from animals. It is considered more lethal than the coronavirus, with a mortality rate ranging from 40 to 70%. In response, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has issued a high alert and provided guidance on preventive measures.
The Nipah virus was first identified in 1998 in Sungai Nipah village, Malaysia, and was named after its place of discovery. Typically, the virus is transmitted by bats and pigs. If a bat infected with the virus consumes fruit, and a human or animal subsequently consumes the same contaminated fruit or vegetable, transmission occurs.
Notably, the Nipah virus can also be transmitted from one infected person to another, spreading through saliva, blood, and bodily fluids. This means that caregivers of Nipah-infected patients are at risk, particularly when the patient coughs or sneezes, as the virus can be airborne. Symptoms typically manifest within two to three days, initially presenting as fever, headache, and respiratory distress. Vigilance and adherence to safety measures are paramount in containing this perilous outbreak. (Hydnow)
Advertisements
Next Story:
-
Asaduddin Owaisi Urges People To Participate In Caste Census
AIMIM President Asaduddin Owaisi urged the people to participate in the ongoing ‘caste census’ being taken up in the State.
-
Heavy Rains In Telangana For Next Three Days
The people of Telangana have been alerted because of moderate to heavy rains in the state for the next three days, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).
-
Abdul Hafeez From Telangana Elected As SIO India National President
Abdul Hafeez from Telangana was elected as the National President of the Students Islamic Organisation (SIO) of India.
-
Banks To Remain Closed On These Dates In December 2024
Banks will not function on 17 days in December on account of festivals, as well as on second and fourth Saturdays and all Sundays.
-
Youth Kills His Girlfriend With Knife In Madhya Pradesh
A youth stabbed his girlfriend seven times with a knife in broad daylight after accusing her of cheating in Madhya Pradesh on Wednesday afternoon. After seriously injuring the woman, the accused fled the scene.
Now you can get the latest stories from Hydnow every day. Click the link to subscribe. Click to follow Hydnow’s Facebook page and Twitter and Instagram