The outbreak of Nipah virus has once again become a matter of concern in Kerala. The second death from this infection has been confirmed in the state. The number of probable cases has also crossed 600.
According to Kerala Health Minister Veena George, a total of 675 people are under surveillance for the virus so far. The highest number of cases have been reported from Palakkad district. Recently, a 50-year-old man died during treatment in the hospital in Mannarkkad area of Palkakad district. It is being told that he had trouble breathing. When his sample was tested, it was found that he was infected with Nipah virus.
This is the second death from Nipah in the state this year. Earlier, the first death from this virus occurred in Malappuram district. In view of the seriousness of the situation, alert has been declared in many states.
Condition of one patient critical
A total of 675 probable cases of Nipah virus have been identified across the state. In these cases, 210 cases have come to light from Malappuram, 347 from Palakkad, 115 from Kozhikode, 2 from Ernakulam and 1 from Thrissur. The Health Minister informed that the condition of a patient in Malappuram is critical and he has been admitted to the ICU. 12 patients have been kept in the isolation ward in Palakkad district. Along with this, 5 people have recovered after treatment.
Precautionary measures announced
In view of the seriousness of the matter, the state government has declared high alert in Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Thrissur, Kannur and Wayanad districts. Wearing masks has once again been made mandatory in Malappuram. Along with this, people have been advised to avoid crowds in hospitals and public places. Instructions have been given to immediately inform in any area where symptoms of fever and brain-related disease are seen.
What is Nipah virus?
According to the World Health Organization, Nipah is a zoonotic virus. It first spreads from animals to humans and then the infection spreads from person to person. This virus spreads rapidly and can be fatal in severe cases. So far two people have died due to Nipah virus in the state. It is being told that 46 people had come in contact with these two deceased, and they came in contact with 543 other persons, due to which the scope of the virus increased rapidly.