What is Nipah, what are its symptoms? - Dr Anoop Kumar A S

Nipah virus outbreak has been confirmed in Kerala again. The virus infection is a serious one as it causes encephalitis that affects the brain. As per the studies, fruit bats are the carriers of this virus.

Dr Anoop Kumar A S, the doctor who was recognised for the early detection of Nipah virus during the spread of the deadly disease in 2018 which proved to be a major breakthrough, talked to Mathrubhumi.com regarding the current outbreak.

“Although the fatality rate is more, spread of the disease is very less in the case of Nipah virus. There is no need to be alarmed. Besides, we are much more equipped than before. Since all people are following strict Covid protocol, the possibility of the spread of the disease is quite less. Also, if the origin of the disease is found, we can halt the spread of the disease, unlike the case of Covid. After 2018, Nipah was confirmed in many other places outside Kerala. But it is a great relief that the disease was detected in only one or two members of the family,” said Dr Anoop Kumar.

Precautions to be taken

Stay away from Nipah infected and Wear masks. People showing symptoms must be subjected to proper screening and follow quarantine. The health workers who take care of the patients must follow the treatment protocols strictly, alerted the doctor.