The Kerala Health Department issued a health alert in Kozhikode district due to two suspected unnatural deaths on August 30 and September 11, possibly linked to the Nipah virus. This zoonotic virus, originating in fruit bats, has caused severe respiratory and neurological diseases in humans. Dr. Aniket Mule, a Consultant Internal Medicine at Wockhardt Hospitals, explained that the virus can transmit through fruit bats, intermediate hosts like pigs, and in some cases, person-to-person contact, especially in healthcare settings.
Symptoms
The symptoms of Nipah virus infection can vary from mild to severe and may include:
1. Fever
2. Headache
3. Dizziness
4. Cough
5. In severe cases, encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), leading to:
– Altered consciousness
– Seizures
– Coma
6. Respiratory symptoms can also occur.
Treatment
There’s no specific antiviral treatment, and supportive care is crucial, along with seeking immediate medical attention if suspected cases arise. Experimental treatments have been explored, but their effectiveness is uncertain. Research and surveillance efforts aim to enhance our understanding and potentially lead to improved treatment options in the future.
