Kerala Health Minister Veena George announced that a child living in Pandikkad town has contracted the Nipah virus. It was stated that the people the child came into contact with due to the virus have been isolated and tested. The public has been asked to take precautions such as wearing masks and limiting hospital visits.
What is Nipah Virus?
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease that can be transmitted from animals to humans. This virus, which can be transmitted from animals such as pigs and fruit bats to humans, can also be transmitted through contaminated food and contact with an infected person. WHO has classified Nipah virus among the priority pathogens that pose a risk of an epidemic outbreak.
Nipah Virus in Kerala
Nipah virus, which was first reported in Kerala in 2018, has since been linked to several deaths in the state. This time, the death of a 14-year-old boy who contracted the virus has raised concerns in the region.
Risk Areas and Action Plan
Parts of Kerala are among the most at-risk areas globally for Nipah virus. Experts say habitat loss has made it easier for animals to live in closer proximity to humans, making it easier for the virus to spread to humans. A Reuters study found that Kerala’s rapid urbanization and tree loss have created “ideal conditions” for the virus to spread. The state government has announced an action plan to prevent Nipah outbreaks.
