From time to time, such viruses appear in the world, due to which millions of people lose their lives. Nipah Virus is also one of them. Cases of this disease are being reported in India also. This is a rare but dangerous virus, which spreads from animals to humans.
Its biggest concern is that it can quickly become serious and in many cases has proved fatal. Read Hindi has talked to Dr. Dev Raj Rai, who has been the General Secretary of IM, on this subject. Let us know how dangerous this disease is and the ways to prevent it.
Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus, that is, it can spread from animals to humans. It is believed that its main source is fruit bats. This virus can spread by coming in contact with infected animals, contaminated fruits or an infected person.
Nipah virus can spread in many ways. If any fruit has been eaten or touched by bats and is eaten without cleaning it properly, the risk of infection increases. Similarly, this virus can also reach humans by coming in contact with infected animals. Apart from this, this disease can also spread from one infected person to another. Infection can occur by coming in contact with the patient’s saliva, cough or sneeze.
The initial symptoms of Nipah virus can be like common flu, such as:
The effect of Nipah virus is most visible on the brain. It can cause swelling in the brain, which is called encephalitis, and this condition is considered very serious. Due to this, the patient’s condition can deteriorate rapidly and he may even go into unconsciousness or coma. Along with this, this virus can also affect the respiratory system, which can increase respiratory problems.
Nipah virus infection is considered serious and the risk of death is high. If the disease is not identified on time and there is a delay in starting treatment, the situation can become fatal. Therefore, it is very important to contact a doctor immediately as soon as the initial symptoms appear.
Some simple precautions can prove to be very useful to prevent viruses like Nipah. Avoid eating fruits that have fallen on the ground or are lying open and before eating fruits, wash them thoroughly and if possible peel them. Avoid going too close to an infected person and take special care of mask and cleanliness. It is also important to maintain distance from sick animals. If you have to go to the hospital, follow the infection prevention rules mentioned there.
No specific antiviral therapy has been approved yet. But
