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The state of Kerala is grappling with another outbreak of the deadly Nipah virus, with the second fatality of the year reported on September 9th. A 24-year-old man from Malappuram, who had recently traveled to Bengaluru, succumbed to the virus at a private hospital. The news of his death was confirmed by the Kerala Health Minister Veena George, who stated that suspicions of Nipah infection arose during the investigation of the man's death by the Regional Medical Officer.
Following the suspicion, samples were immediately sent for testing, which ultimately confirmed the presence of the Nipah virus. The man's journey from Bengaluru back to Kerala, potentially exposing individuals along the way, has raised concerns about the potential spread of the virus. The health authorities have undertaken swift action to mitigate the risks associated with this latest case. They identified and isolated 151 close contacts of the deceased man, including five who exhibited minor fever and symptoms, and their samples were sent for testing.
To manage the situation effectively, 16 committees were formed to oversee various aspects of the response, including contact tracing, isolation, and medical management. The outbreak highlights the ongoing threat posed by the Nipah virus, particularly in Kerala, where previous outbreaks have been reported in Kozhikode and Ernakulam districts. The presence of Nipah virus antibodies has also been detected in bats in several districts across the state, indicating the potential for the virus to spread within the region. The current situation underscores the need for heightened vigilance and proactive measures to control further spread and protect public health. This includes ongoing surveillance, rapid response mechanisms, and public awareness campaigns to educate people about the risks associated with Nipah virus and the importance of seeking medical attention if they experience symptoms.
Source: Kerala: Malappuram Man Died Due To Nipah Virus, 2nd Death This Year