Nipah Virus: Do’s and Don’ts

Nipah virus (NiV) is currently creating a panic situation in India. Initially, it was detected in Kozhikode, Kerala, then Karnataka and now it is suspected to have spread to other states as well.

In this regard, health advisories have been issued by several state governments. Yesterday, the Delhi government has issued advisory for the public.

People should be careful about NiV and take precautions especially at high risk areas.

Here are certain Do’s and Don’ts to prevent or deal with Nipah Virus infection.

Do’s:

• If you find symptoms like viral fever especially neck rigidity, you should immediately report to Health Care Center.
• Respiratory hygiene should be maintained. Always use clean handkerchief when you are coughing or sneezing. Avoid spitting here and there.
• Wash your hands before and after every meal with soap and water. You should also wash your hands after bringing fruits and vegetables.
• Those who attend the patients especially health care workers should use complete protective equipment. This protects them from transmission while examining the patients.

Don’ts:

• Don’t use self-medication.
• Don’t consume raw date palm sap.
• Don’t eat any fruit that is partially eaten by any animal. You should avoid eating fruits even if you find a bite mark on them.
• Don’t travel to unnecessary places especially the zones where the virus is known to be present.

As of now, all the state governments are assuring their people that there is no need to panic and the condition is under control. However, the above-mentioned advisories should be followed to avoid risk.

NiV is an airborne transmission infection. If anyone comes in direct contact with infected persons or living beings, then they will also be affected.

Some common symptoms of this virus include fever, headache, nausea, dizziness, drowsiness and confusion. Since the inflammation of NiV is associated with the brain, utmost care should be taken in the initial days of fever to avoid further ill effects.

Photo by Debora Cartagena, USCDCP on Pixnio (Free for commercial use / CC0 Public Domain)

Image Reference: https://pixnio.com/science/microscopy-images/nipah-virus/cytoarchitectural-changes-in-the-trachea-and-bronchioles-brought-on-by-a-nipah-virus-infection