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Kozhikode: There is no need to avoid fruits completely amidst the Nipah scare. Experts say that fruits can be consumed but one must exercise caution. It is better to avoid consumption of fruits found on the ground or ones that seem to be bitten by birds or bats. There is no danger in plucking ripe fruits directly from the tree or plucking raw fruits and keeping them aside for ripening.
When purchasing fruits from the market, one should examine each fruit carefully and take only those that seem undamaged. Experts advise against buying fruits that seem to have bite marks, bruised or with changes in colour. Overly ripe and rotten ones should not be eaten.
Fruits with thick peels are generally considered to be safe since the fruits are washed after removing the peel. All fruits should be soaked in water for 15-20 minutes and then cleaned with fresh water before use.
Well washed fruits rarely carry any virus. Those that need peeling should also be washed before the peel is removed. It is recommended that fruit trees near home premises be covered with nets.
Papaya, guava (perekka), chikoo (sapota), mango, rambutan, litchi, rose apple (chambakka) are the fruits that need to be consumed with care during the Nipah scare. Bananas are not so dangerous because the banana stalks are cut from the tree and kept indoors for ripening. Banana partly bitten by bats or squirrels should be discarded.
Fruits purchased from the market like grapes and avocado (butter fruit) are relatively safe. Fruits and vegetables contain many essential vitamins and nutrients that are essential for health and immunity. This is why it is not advisable to avoid them completely.
Prepared by: Aby P Joy
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