🦇 Nipah Virus: A Deadly but Preventable Zoonotic Threat
- The SKNH
- Jun 18
- 2 min read
⚠️ What is Nipah Virus?
Nipah Virus (NiV) is a zoonotic virus — meaning it spreads from animals to humans — and is known for causing severe respiratory illness and encephalitis (brain inflammation).
The virus was first identified in 1999 in Malaysia, and since then, sporadic outbreaks have occurred in Bangladesh and India, especially in Kerala, raising concerns due to its high fatality rate.
📰 Why Nipah Is in the News
India witnessed fresh Nipah outbreaks in Kerala in 2023, with confirmed deaths and rapid containment zones established by health authorities. Due to the virus’s high mortality and no specific treatment, prevention is crucial.
🦠 How Nipah Spreads
Mode of Transmission | Source |
Direct contact with infected animals | Especially fruit bats and pigs |
Consumption of contaminated fruits | Fruits partially eaten by infected bats |
Human-to-human transmission | Close contact with body fluids of infected |
Hospital-acquired infections | Poor hygiene in clinical settings |
🩺 Symptoms of Nipah Virus Infection
Stage | Common Symptoms |
Early stage | Fever, headache, muscle pain, vomiting |
Intermediate | Drowsiness, dizziness, confusion |
Severe stage | Encephalitis, seizures, coma, respiratory distress |
Symptoms appear within 4 to 14 days of exposure. The illness can progress rapidly, and in some cases, it is fatal within 48 hours.
🛡️ Prevention Tips from SKNH
Avoid consuming raw fruits or fruit juices in areas where bats are active
Wash fruits thoroughly before eating
Avoid contact with sick animals, especially pigs and bats
Maintain strict hygiene in healthcare settings
Isolate suspected patients and follow proper infection control
Report any suspected outbreak to health authorities immediately
🏥 How SKNH Prepares for Rare Infections like Nipah
Staff trained in infection control and isolation protocols
Rapid coordination with district health authorities for outbreak management
Emergency care for patients with respiratory distress or neurological symptoms
Public health education to raise awareness about zoonotic diseases
Safe referral process for highly suspected or confirmed cases
📌 Trusted Care at Sree Krishna Nursing Home
📍 Address: Sree Krishna Nursing Home, Narayangarh, Paschim Medinipur, West Bengal – 721437
📞 Phone: 03229-258257 / +91 8327529897
🌐 Website: www.sknh.in
💬 From the Desk of SKNH Medical Team
“Nipah Virus is deadly but avoidable. With early detection, responsible behavior, and expert guidance, we can protect our communities from such rare threats.”
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