What is Niv? Here is what the virus is all about

The outbreak of Nipah Virus has scared people all across the country. Kerala has been on high alert due to mysterious deaths of 10 people. Out of these, three were reported to be caused due to Nipah virus. According to the National Institute of Virology, Pune, Nipah virus is the sole cause of these three deaths.

what is Nipah Virus?

As per World Health Organization, Nipah virus is a newly emerging zoonosis that causes a severe disease both in animals and humans. Notably, this virus was first identified in Malaysia and Singapore in 1998. At that time, it was primarily caused by pigs and through them, it was then transferred to humans.

At that time, Nipah infected as many as 265 people then, out of which 40 per cent were taken under intensive care unit due to infection having spread severely.

Causes and Symptoms

The virus can be transferred through infected bats, pigs or humans who have been infected. In 2004, humans who consumed the date palm sap infected by fruitbat caught the virus as well.

Here are its causes and symptoms:

According to experts, Nipah Virus is an airborne transmission infection and can affect those who come in direct contact with contaminated bodies. The viral infection is associated with inflammation of the brain due to which severe days of fever can often lead to a state of confusion and disorientation. If not taken care of, these signs can even cause coma within the span of 24 to 48 hours.

Headache
Fever
Nausea
Confusion and dizziness

Also Read: Major Outbreak Of ‘Nipah Virus’ In Kerela: Know Its Symptoms And Causes

The symptoms may remain for 7- 10 days Watching out for respiratory illness during the early stages is also a must. The signs may appear after 14 days after the person gets affected. The early signs can be confusing. It may appear like a viral fever. Surprisingly, 60 percent of this infection in humans comes from animals.

Prevention and Cure

As of now, there is no particular vaccine for this Virus. The only way to treat this virus is through intensive supportive care. Also, you should avoid eating date palms to protect yourself from the deadly Nipah virus. You should wash your hands regularly and keep yourself hydrated to protect yourself from this deadly Nipah virus.

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