2018 Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala
| 2018 Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala | |
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| Disease | Nipah virus infection |
| Location | Kerala, India |
| Date | May 2018 |
| Confirmed cases | 19 |
Deaths | 17 |
The 2018 Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala was a significant public health event that occurred in the state of Kerala, India, in May 2018. The outbreak was caused by the Nipah virus, a zoonotic virus that can be transmitted from animals to humans and also between humans. The outbreak resulted in 19 confirmed cases and 17 deaths, with a high case fatality rate.
Background[edit | edit source]
The Nipah virus is a member of the family Paramyxoviridae and is classified under the genus Henipavirus. It was first identified in 1998-1999 during an outbreak among pig farmers in Malaysia. The virus is known to be carried by fruit bats of the family Pteropodidae, particularly the genus Pteropus.
Outbreak[edit | edit source]
The outbreak in Kerala was first identified in the district of Kozhikode in May 2018. The initial cases were reported from a family in the village of Changaroth, where three members died from the infection. The source of the infection was traced back to fruit bats, which are natural hosts of the virus.
The Kerala state government, along with the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, took immediate action to contain the outbreak. Measures included isolating infected individuals, contact tracing, and public awareness campaigns to prevent further spread of the virus.
Clinical Presentation[edit | edit source]
The symptoms of Nipah virus infection include fever, headache, drowsiness, disorientation, and mental confusion. In severe cases, it can lead to encephalitis and coma. The incubation period ranges from 4 to 14 days, but it can be as long as 45 days.
Response and Containment[edit | edit source]
The response to the outbreak involved a coordinated effort by local health authorities, the World Health Organization, and other international agencies. Isolation wards were set up in hospitals, and health workers were provided with personal protective equipment. The public was advised to avoid consuming fruits that may have been contaminated by bats and to maintain hygiene.
Impact[edit | edit source]
The outbreak had a significant impact on the local population and healthcare system. It also raised awareness about the need for better surveillance and preparedness for emerging infectious diseases. The high mortality rate and the potential for human-to-human transmission made it a serious public health concern.
Also see[edit | edit source]
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