Khaberni - Global health concerns are increasing with the resurgence of the «Nipah» virus, which has been classified by the World Health Organization among the serious diseases that require precise international monitoring due to its rapid spread and its ability to cause severe health complications that can lead to death.
New cases recorded in India
The Indian health authorities announced the recording of five confirmed cases of the Nipah virus in the eastern state of West Bengal, including doctors and nurses, which has renewed concerns about the possibility of an outbreak within healthcare facilities.
Reports indicated three new cases earlier this week, in addition to two previous cases involving nurses, one male and the other female, who were working at a private hospital in the city of Barasat near the capital Kolkata, according to what was reported by the British newspaper «Independent».
Quarantine and strict medical monitoring
The authorities have placed about 100 people who were in contact with the infected under home quarantine, while the infected individuals receive treatment at hospitals in the Indian capital, with one critical case recorded so far amid stringent precautionary measures to contain the situation.
What is the Nipah virus?
The Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease, primarily transmitted from bats to humans, and can also be transmitted between people through body fluids or direct contact.
It was first discovered in Malaysia in 1998, where it was associated with an outbreak among pigs. However, it now poses a global health threat due to its direct impact on the respiratory system and the brain.
Symptoms of Nipah virus infection
Symptoms typically appear after an incubation period ranging from 5 to 14 days and include:
• Severe high fever and chills.
• Severe headache and persistent dizziness.
• Respiratory disturbances such as coughing and difficulty breathing.
• Frequent nausea and vomiting.
• In advanced cases, there may be brain inflammation leading to severe confusion, loss of consciousness, or coma.
Who is at higher risk?
Studies suggest that certain groups are more susceptible to the virus, including:
• Workers in pig farms or animal markets.
• People who directly handle bats or their products.
• Healthcare providers or family members caring for infected individuals without proper protective means.
How can you prevent Nipah virus?
In the absence of an approved vaccine so far, prevention of the Nipah virus relies on strict adherence to precautionary measures, including:
• Avoiding contact with bats or consuming their non-sterilized products.
• Cooking meat and animal products well before consumption.
• Using masks and gloves when dealing with patients or infected animals.
• Washing hands thoroughly with soap and water regularly.
• Complying with health authorities' instructions and promptly reporting any suspected cases.
The importance of community vigilance
The resurgence of the Nipah virus imposes a state of health alertness and reminds us of the dangers of diseases that cross borders, necessitating community vigilance and strict adherence to preventive measures to limit any potential outbreak.
