Nipah Virus Resurfaces in Kerala

• 13 Sep 2023

Recently, the Nipah virus has re-emerged in Kerala, with two deaths reported in Kozhikode district.

• Union Health Minister confirmed the cause of death as the Nipah virus and revealed that four suspected cases are under surveillance, with samples sent for testing at the National Institute of Virology, Pune.

Key Points

• Surveillance and Response: The central government has sent experts to aid the state government in monitoring and reducing response times. Government medical colleges in Kerala have received guidelines and protective kits to manage the situation.
• Previous Incidents: Nipah virus deaths were previously reported in Kozhikode district in 2018 and 2021.
• State Government Response: Chief Minister of Kerela expressed concern over the deaths and issued an alert. Close contacts of the deceased are under treatment, and precautionary measures are in place.

Nipah Virus

• Origin: The Nipah virus, which belongs to the group of zoonotic viruses, was first discovered in 1999 following an outbreak of disease in pigs and people in Singapore and Malaysia.
• Transmission: The infection is generally transmitted through fruit bats but can also be spread through pigs and animals. It can also be spread through contaminated food.
• Control Measures: The state government has set up a control room in Kozhikode and advised mask usage as a precautionary measure.