What is Nipah Virus? Everything about the deadly virus that is killing people in Kerala

The Nipah virus has claimed many lives in Kozhikode and Malappuram districts in north Kerala, while the condition of some of those persons undergoing treatment for the viral disease is said to be critical.

IMAGE: AFP/ Representational

NEW DELHI: Nipah virus has so far claimed 12 lives in Kozhikode and Malappuram districts in north Kerala while the condition of many undergoing treatments is said to be critical. Nipah virus (NiV) infection is a newly emerging zoonosis that causes severe disease in both animals and humans. Here are all the questions answered about the deadly virus.

• What is Nipah Virus?

Nipah virus was initially discovered when it caused an outbreak of brain fever among pig farmers in Malaysia.

• Who is at high risk? How is it transmitted?

1. People working with pigs and consuming pigs.
2. Farmers who come in contact with bats.
3. Consuming Fruits which are already bitten by a bat.
4. Contact with people who already have Nipah virus infection.

• What are the early symptoms?

The initial presentation is non-specific, characterized by the sudden onset of fever, headache, muscle pain, nausea and vomiting. Neck rigidity and photophobia are also seen. The disease rapidly progresses, with deterioration in consciousness leading to coma within five to seven days.

• Should I be worried? A little. As it is transmitted from person to person and there is no effective antiviral therapy for this infection.
• How is it diagnosed?

The diagnosis is by ELISA which is currently done at National Institute of Virology, Pune.

• How is it treated?

Supportive care is the mainstay of treatment and infected patients may require intensive care monitoring. There is no approved specific therapy for this infection. So prevention is the only cure!

• How do I prevent it?

1.  Avoid contact with pigs and pig handlers.
2. Maintain personal hygiene and intensive hand washing practices
3.  Avoid consuming raw fruits, Consume only well cooked, clean, homemade food till the outbreak settles down.
4. Preferably use N95 mask while travelling or working in public places to avoid person to person transmission.
5. Be aware of the symptoms and report to the doctor immediately for early diagnosis and treatment.