India's Battle Against the Deadly Nipah Virus Outbreak: Testing and Alertness Across States
Health officials in India are working to contain an outbreak of the Nipah virus, which has a high fatality rate of up to 75%. Two adults and a child have tested positive for the virus in Kerala state, and around 800 people have been tested so far. Public offices, government buildings, and religious institutions have been closed in affected areas. The Nipah virus is zoonotic and primarily carried by fruit bats. Symptoms include fever, headaches, muscle pain, vomiting, sore throat, and neurological signs. The virus is transmitted through direct contact with infected animals or humans and their bodily fluids. Treatment is limited to supportive care. Previous outbreaks in India and Bangladesh have resulted in fatalities.