Kerala and Bengal Aftermath
Jamshedpur: Rising cases of the deadly Nipah Virus (NiV) in several Indian states, including West Bengal, have put the Jharkhand government and health department on high alert. In view of the situation in the neighbouring state, a high alert has been issued in East Singhbhum district, including Jamshedpur.
Civil Surgeon Dr Sahir Pal has directed all government and private hospitals in the district to remain vigilant and closely monitor any suspected cases of Nipah virus infection.
Hospitals Asked to Stay Alert Against Nipah Virus
Issuing strict instructions, Dr Pal said Nipah is a highly fatal virus and Jamshedpur’s proximity to West Bengal increases the risk of infection. All medical institutions have been instructed to immediately test any suspected patient and inform the district surveillance unit without delay. Hospitals have also been asked to consider separate isolation arrangements for suspected cases.
What Is Nipah Virus and How Does It Spread?
Scientifically, Nipah is a zoonotic virus, meaning it spreads from animals to humans. The virus is primarily transmitted through fruit bats, its natural hosts.
Human infection can occur by:
- Consuming fruits bitten or contaminated by bats
- Drinking contaminated date palm sap
- Direct contact with an infected person
Health experts warn that initial symptoms often resemble the common flu, but the disease can rapidly turn fatal if not treated in time.
Symptoms That Should Not Be Ignored
- High fever and severe headache, along with intense muscle pain
- Respiratory distress, including difficulty in breathing
- Neurological complications such as brain inflammation (encephalitis), loss of consciousness, and seizures in severe cases
How to Protect Yourself From Nipah Virus
Appealing to residents not to panic, Dr Pal urged people to remain cautious and follow preventive measures:
- Avoid eating fruits fallen on the ground or partially eaten by birds or bats
- Wash fruits thoroughly before consumption
- Maintain hand hygiene and avoid close contact with infected individuals
- Seek immediate medical attention if high fever is accompanied by breathing difficulty, instead of relying on home remedies
Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely to prevent any possible outbreak in Jharkhand.
