After the cases of Nipah virus in India, many Asian countries including Thailand, Nepal and Taiwan have tightened airport screening. Health agencies are on high alert due to high mortality rates and the possibility of human-to-human transmission.
Nipah Virus Outbreak In India: With the confirmation of new cases of Nipah virus in India, concern has increased not only in the country but throughout Asia. This is the same virus whose mortality rate is said to be 40 to 75 percent. As soon as cases were reported in West Bengal, many Asian countries immediately tightened airport screening, health checks and monitoring of passengers.
The fear about Nipah virus is high because it can spread from person to person, and there is no sure cure or vaccine for it yet. This is the reason why the World Health Organization (WHO) also considers it a virus with high risk and the ability to spread epidemics.
Where and how did Nipah virus cases emerge in India?
According to health officials, Nipah virus infection has been confirmed in a private hospital near Kolkata. After this, contact tracing was started rapidly. About 100 people were quarantined, while more than 180 people have been tested. Of these, about 20 people are in high risk category, however, it is a matter of relief that till now everyone’s report has come negative. The condition of one of the infected nurses is said to be critical, which has further increased the concern.
Which countries have imposed strict restrictions on those traveling from India?
Why is Thailand the most cautious?
Thailand has stepped up health checks at its major airports—Suvarnabhumi, Don Mueang and Phuket—for travelers coming from West Bengal, India. Passengers are being screened for fever, respiratory problems and other symptoms. Also, health alert cards are being given to people so that they can report immediately if symptoms appear. If necessary, passengers can also be quarantined.
What steps did Nepal take at the border and airport?
Nepal has increased surveillance on its borders with India and Tribhuvan International Airport. Health desks have been set up and hospitals have been instructed to report immediately in case of even the slightest suspicion. The Government of Nepal is particularly concerned about the continuous movement between India and Nepal.
Why did Taiwan put Nipah in the most dangerous category?
Taiwan is preparing to declare Nipah virus as a Category-5 notifiable disease, which is the most serious disease category there. This means that if a case is found, immediate reporting, strict isolation and containment will be necessary. At present, travel warning is also issued for some parts of India.
After all, what is Nipah virus and why is it so dangerous?
Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease, that is, it spreads from animals to humans. Its natural carriers are considered to be fruit-eating bats. The virus can be spread by eating contaminated fruit or food, by contact with infected pigs, or by close contact with an infected person.
What are the symptoms of Nipah virus?
Early symptoms:
- Fever
- Headache
- body pain
- Vomit
- sore throat
- In critical condition:
- difficulty breathing
- pneumonia
- unconsciousness or confusion
- Inflammation of the brain (encephalitis)
Many times the patient does not show any symptoms initially, due to which the risk of infection further increases.
Is it possible to prevent Nipah virus?
At present there is no treatment or vaccine for Nipah virus. Treatment is limited to symptomatic supportive care. For this reason, governments are placing more emphasis on prevention, screening and awareness. Asia coming into alert mode after the cases of Nipah virus were reported in India is an indication of how dangerous and sensitive this virus is considered. Timely alertness is the biggest weapon to prevent this.