The Nipah virus, known for its potential to cause severe brain damage, has resurfaced in the Kozhikode district of Kerala for the third time in five years. This has prompted the state health department to issue a health alert following two “unnatural” deaths and the identification of four high-risk contact cases, including a 9-year-old boy who required ventilator support. While the patients are receiving medical attention, there has been significant improvement in the condition of the 9-year-old, who has been weaned off ventilator support. However, test results for additional samples are pending, and health experts are advising caution.
Dr. Harish Chafle, a Consultant Intensivist and Chest Physician at Global Hospitals in Parel Mumbai, explained in an interview with HT Lifestyle that the Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus, meaning it can be transmitted from animals to humans. According to Dr. Chafle, Nipah virus infection can manifest with various symptoms, including:
- Fever
- Headache
- Fatigue
- Muscle Pain
- Respiratory Distress
- Encephalitis (Inflammation of the Brain)
Dr. Chafle emphasized that in severe cases, Nipah virus infection can rapidly progress to a coma within 24-48 hours and can be fatal. He cautioned against the primary risk factors and sources of transmission, which include:
- Animal Reservoirs: Fruit bats are considered the natural reservoir of the Nipah virus. Direct or indirect contact with these bats, their excretions, or saliva can lead to transmission to humans.
- Consumption of Contaminated Food: Infection can occur through the consumption of fruits or juices contaminated with bat saliva or urine.
- Human-to-Human Transmission: Once a person is infected, Nipah virus can also spread through close contact with infected individuals, especially in healthcare settings.
Dr. Chafle also mentioned that, as of his last update in September 2021, there is no specific antiviral treatment for Nipah virus infection. Supportive care is crucial and includes:
- Isolation: Patients should be isolated to prevent further transmission.
- Symptomatic Treatment: Managing symptoms such as fever and pain can improve the patient’s comfort.
- Intensive Care: Severe cases may require intensive care, including mechanical ventilation for respiratory distress.
- Experimental Treatments: While some experimental treatments and antiviral drugs have been explored, their effectiveness is not well-established.
In conclusion, Dr. Chafle stressed the importance of consulting healthcare experts and organizations for the latest information on Nipah virus, especially regarding developments in treatment or prevention strategies. For the most up-to-date information on Nipah virus, he recommended reaching out to relevant health authorities, such as the World Health Organization (WHO), as well as local healthcare providers or institutions for region-specific expert guidance.
