Nipah Virus Outbreak Under Control in Southern India, Health Minister Confirms
An outbreak of the deadly Nipah virus in India’s southern Kerala state is reportedly under control, according to a health official. Despite over 1,200 people listed as close contacts, Kerala Health Minister Veena George stated that there have been no new reported cases of the virus. Six cases have been confirmed, with two resulting in fatalities.
George revealed some encouraging news: “All four patients under treatment are now stable, and the condition of a 9-year-old boy, who was on ventilator support, is improving clinically. He is now out of ventilator support and is being given minimal oxygen support.”
In total, 1,233 individuals have been identified as having contact with infected persons, leading to eased restrictions in nine containment zones within Kerala. However, masks and social distancing remain mandatory.
The Nipah virus, described by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) as zoonotic, can be transmitted from animals to humans, with fruit bats being its primary carriers in nature. It can cause illnesses ranging from mild to severe, including encephalitis and respiratory problems, with a fatality rate estimated at 40% to 75%, according to the World Health Organization (WHO).
The virus spreads through direct contact with infected animals or humans and their bodily fluids, as well as through the consumption of contaminated food products. Unfortunately, there is no specific treatment for the Nipah virus; care primarily involves rest, hydration, and symptom management.
Previous outbreaks in India and Bangladesh have claimed lives, with 62 fatalities in 2001 and 21 in India’s Kerala state in 2018. The situation is currently being monitored closely to ensure continued containment.