Kerala government issues alert before Nipah virus season
What's the story
An alert about the possible outbreak of Nipah virus has been sounded by the Kerala government to all District Medical Officers (DMOs) in the state. The notice was issued keeping in mind the seasonal outbreak of the virus in South Asia. The transmission season begins in December and could go till June. In May this year, 17 people died in Kerala due to this.
The circular
What does the circular read
Additional Chief Secretary (Health) Rajeev Sadanandan, who signed the order, has asked all DMOs to stay on their toes during the aforementioned months. "Instructions are also issued to all Medical Colleges, district hospitals and Taluk hospitals to adopt precaution dealing with patients suffering from ARDS (Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome)," read the circular. Hospitals have been asked to 'observe infection control practices strictly'.
Masks
Patients will be given masks to contain infection
The circular states that people suffering from cough should be directed to cough corners, where they would be given masks. "Masks should be provided to those suffering from a severe respiratory infection and a person should be appointed to provide information about the masks and the need to wear them," a senior official said. Citizens have also been told to remain alert.
Instructions
People asked to cover mouths, not eat unwashed fruits
The state government has asked people to not eat fruits bitten by bats. They have also been advised to wash fruits and vegetables before consumption and told to use masks if they have cough. Those suffering from cough have been advised to use a towel or cover their mouth while stepping out, or when speaking to someone in the house.
What happened
In May, the outbreak brought Kerala to a standstill
Following its outbreak in Kozhikode and Malappuram districts, the state was put on high alert. and thousands were quarantined. While official records stated 17 people lost their lives due to Nipah, an international medical journal claimed 21 people died. Contact with infected animals, or eating contaminated items or staying in touch with a patient, can get a healthy person sick.