Karnataka is closely monitoring the Nipah Virus, after outbreak of virus in Kerala
Bengaluru: After an outbreak of Nipah Virus in Kerala, the contagious disease is being closely monitored in Karnataka as well. According to the Directorate of Health and Family Welfare, Bengaluru, anyone suffering from flu-like symptoms coming from infected areas should be screened and sent for immediate medical advice.
The Directorate advised those working with patients to wear the mask, cape, glove etc and to take care of personal hygiene. While the consumption of bitten fruits, fallen fruits and unprocessed fruits must also be avoided.
The state Health and Family Welfare department has issued general guidelines to the public on Nipah Virus across the state. Asked about the findings of the rapid medical team that was sent to Kerala from Delhi to probe virus deaths, Department Director Dr P.L Nataraj said, "As of now, we haven't got any updates from the team after the arrival."
He also said that two Nipah suspect cases were identified from Mangaluru and blood samples were sent for tests.
On the steps to be taken if infected, Dr Usha Manjunath, Director, Institute of Health Management Research (IIHMR), said, "Currently, there is no effective treatment for Nipah Virus infection. The treatment is limited to supportive care. It is important to practise standard infection control practices and proper barrier nursing techniques to avoid the transmission from person to person. All suspected cases of infection should be isolated and given intensive supportive care."
Ribavirin, an antiviral medication, has shown promise in vitro tests, but has not yet been proven effective in humans. Passive immunisation using a human monoclonal antibody that targets the Nipah G glycoprotein has been evaluated in the ferret model as post-exposure prophylaxis. The anti-malarial drug chloroquine was shown to block the critical functions needed for maturation of Nipah Virus, although no clinical benefit has yet been observed.
Dr Usha said, "It's advisable not to consume fresh fruits, date palm and other poorly washed fruits or half-consumed fruits. Since drinking raw date palm sap bitten by a bat can also cause NiV, one should stay away from consuming date palm for some time."
The infection can be prevented by avoiding exposure to bats and sick pigs in endemic areas. Using water from wells infested by bats should be avoided.
"Detection is another issue with NiV and anyone who feels the symptoms should get tested thoroughly from a recognised facility. However, surveillance and awareness are important for preventing future outbreaks," Dr Usha said.
