Nipah virus outbreak reported in Kerala-India, teen dies, 4 in ICU and 246 under isolation
Nikhil Prasad Fact checked by:Thailand Medical News Team Jul 21, 2024 4 months, 3 weeks, 12 hours, 27 minutes ago
Outbreak News: A tragic resurgence of the Nipah virus has hit Kerala, resulting in the death of a 14-year-old boy and putting over 200 people under observation. This alarming outbreak has prompted strict measures and extensive preventive actions across the state to control the spread of the deadly virus.
Nipah virus outbreak reported in Kerala-India, teen dies, 4 in ICU and 246 under isolation
Teenager Succumbs to Nipah Virus
The latest victim, a 14-year-old boy from Malappuram, succumbed to the Nipah virus after battling the infection at the Kozhikode Medical College Hospital. Initially treated at a private clinic on July 12, he was subsequently transferred to multiple hospitals before the National Institute of Virology in Pune confirmed the Nipah infection. Despite the medical efforts, he suffered a massive cardiac arrest and passed away on Sunday.
The boy's funeral will be conducted under strict Nipah protocol, ensuring minimal risk of further transmission. The Kozhikode District Collector and the family agreed on the burial arrangements, adhering to the safety guidelines.
Spread and Containment Efforts
The infection has now spread to a 68-year-old man from Malappuram, who is currently in the ICU at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital. This new case is particularly concerning as the patient was not on the initial contact list of the deceased teenager. His sample has been sent for testing to the virology institute in Pune. 3 other symptomatic cases are currently in ICU at the moment.
Imposing Restrictions
In response to the outbreak, stringent restrictions have been imposed in the Anakkayam and Pandikkad panchayats of Malappuram. Shops are permitted to operate only from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m., and public gatherings are heavily restricted, with a maximum of 50 people allowed at wedding ceremonies. Residents have been advised to stay home, and masks are mandatory.
Government Response and Preventive Measures
Kerala's Health Minister Veena George has urged the public to remain calm, assuring that all necessary measures are being taken to control the virus spread. She emphasized the importance of contact tracing and told local
Outbreak News outlets that there were 63 people are currently in the high-risk category, including two children showing symptoms. The health department is actively tracing the contacts and has identified 246 individuals linked to the deceased boy.
In addition to human contact tracing, the animal husbandry department is inspecting the district for any recent animal deaths that could indicate the virus's source. They are collecting animal samples as part of the investigation.
Fever Clinics and Surveillance
To manage the outbreak effectively, the health department has launched fever clinics in the peripheral areas of Pandikkad, including Wandoo
r, Nilambur, and Karuvarakundu. People with fever are advised to avoid contact with others, including family members, especially in areas close to the outbreak's epicenter.
A comprehensive survey will be conducted across the district to trace the source of the infection. Officials and volunteers will visit households to identify potential cases and sources of the virus. The state has also set up 30 isolation rooms and a six-bed ICU at Manjeri Medical College to accommodate and isolate high-risk individuals.
Central Government Support
The Union Health Ministry has responded swiftly by deploying a multi-member joint outbreak response team to assist Kerala. This team will help investigate the virus case in Malappuram, identify epidemiological linkages, and provide technical assistance. Additionally, the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) has sent monoclonal antibodies for patient management, although they could not be used due to the boy's critical condition.
A mobile BSL-3 laboratory for testing samples from patient contacts has arrived in Kozhikode, enhancing the state's capacity to manage the outbreak.
Historical Context of Nipah in Kerala
Kerala has faced Nipah outbreaks multiple times, with previous occurrences in 2018, 2019, 2021, and 2023. These outbreaks have primarily affected the Kozhikode district, with the 2018 outbreak being the most severe, resulting in 17 deaths. The state has since developed a standard operating procedure and protocols to manage such outbreaks effectively.
Public Advisory and Community Support
Health Minister Veena George has advised the public against destroying bat habitats, as disturbing them could increase the risk of virus transmission. She also warned against consuming fruits with bite marks and honey from banana peels. The government has mobilized volunteers to support families under isolation by helping them with groceries, medicines, and caring for pets or livestock.
Vigilance and Preparedness
The Kerala health department remains vigilant and prepared to tackle the outbreak, emphasizing the importance of public cooperation and adherence to preventive measures. By following these guidelines and supporting the containment efforts, the community can work together to prevent the further spread of the Nipah virus.
As the state battles this outbreak, the efforts of healthcare workers, government officials, and the community's resilience play a crucial role in overcoming this public health challenge. The state is on high alert, and every measure is being taken to safeguard the health and well-being of its residents.
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Outbreak News, keep on logging to Thailand Medical News.
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