Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala: Active cases rise to three, govt forms 19 committees to monitor outbreak

The number of active cases of the Nipah virus in Kerala has risen to three, with the confirmation of another positive case in Kozhikode district on Wednesday. The state government has formed 19 committees to monitor the outbreak and prevent the spread of the infection.

Health Minister Veena George said that the new case is a close contact of one of the two patients who have already died from the Nipah virus. The patient is currently being treated at a hospital in Kozhikode.

The government has also intensified contact tracing and surveillance in the area. More than 700 people have been identified as close contacts of the infected patients and are being monitored closely.

The Nipah virus is a highly contagious zoonotic virus that can spread from bats to humans. It can cause severe respiratory illness and can be fatal in up to 70% of cases.

The Kerala government has said that it is taking all necessary measures to contain the outbreak and prevent further spread of the virus. The government has also urged people to be vigilant and to take precautions to avoid infection.

Here are some of the measures that the government is taking to contain the outbreak:

• Contact tracing and surveillance: The government is tracing and monitoring all close contacts of the infected patients.
• Isolation and treatment: All infected patients are being isolated and treated in hospitals.
• Public awareness: The government is raising public awareness about the Nipah virus and how to prevent infection.
• Disinfection: The government is disinfecting all areas that have been visited by the infected patients.

The Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala is a serious concern, but the government is taking all necessary measures to contain it. The public is also being urged to be vigilant and to take precautions to avoid infection.

Here are some tips for preventing Nipah virus infection:

• Avoid contact with bats.
• Wash your hands frequently with soap and water.
• Cook food thoroughly before eating it.
• Avoid contact with sick people.
• If you have any symptoms of Nipah virus infection, such as fever, headache, vomiting, and respiratory problems, seek medical attention immediately.

The government is also urging people to get vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis, which is a similar virus that can also cause severe illness and death. The Japanese encephalitis vaccine is available at most government hospitals and clinics in Kerala.