Ernakulam: A year ago, Nipah virus had taken away 18 lives in Kozhikode.  Now a youth from Thrissur, Kerala was admitted to a private hospital in Ernakulam hospital with a high fever for 10 days. 

Reports suggested that the symptoms could be that of Nipah.

After this, there is a panic situation in Kerala. However, the state government had already declared that the news about Nipah case is baseless. 

This virus was first identified in Kampung Sungai Nipah area of Malaysia in 1998. This virus that spreads from a type of fruit bats is dangerous to both humans and animals too. The death is caused due to the spread of this virus in the heart and brain.

Also read: Kerala: Nipah virus threat makes people panic

There is no vaccine for the disease caused by Nipah virus attack. Primary treatment can be intensive supportive care. According to WHO,

treatment is limited because Nipah virus encephalitis can be transmitted person-to-person. Standard infection control practices and proper barrier nursing techniques are essential in preventing hospital-acquired infections.

Precautions are always better than cure:

If you have excessive fatigue and drowsiness along with fever and cough, you should meet a doctor immediately. Do not forget to wear masks and gloves. Do not spend too much time with patients. Do not eat fruits and vegetables, which have been partially eaten by birds and animals. 

Avoid eating mango, guava and java apple. Do not use any of the things, which have been kept in open pots. People should be more serious about health if you are staying near where there are more bats. Keep yourself clean and tidy. If you go to a nearby hospital, you should wash your hands and feet clean with soap.