Nipah virus: Health department lists out safety measures

Dimapur, May 24 (EMN): The directorate of Health and Family Welfare in Kohima issued safety measures need to be taken for the Nipah virus (NiV). This has been issued in light of the NiV outbreak that claimed ten and counting lives in the state of Kerala earlier this week. According to the press release from the directorate on Thursday, the Nipah Virus (NiV) is an emerging infectious disease. The transmission of NiV to humans may occur after direct contact with infected bats or from NiV infected people. Typically, the infected person shows signs of fever, headache, drowsiness, disorientation, mental confusion, coma, and potentially death, the press release added. Queries may contact State Surveillance Unit (SSU), IDSP at email ID: nlssu.idsp@nic.in

DO’s

DON’Ts

Prevent contact with bat excreta and fruits eaten or  bitten by bats Keeping a minimum distance of 1 meter (one arm’s distance) Using personal mask while visiting patients in hospitals Use soap and water to wash before and after meals or after visiting patients. Use hand sanitizer to cleanse hands. Use gloves and personal protection while handling excreta of domestic animals. In case of suspected NiV, contact the nearest health facility. Avoid or postpone travelling to NiV affected area i.e. Kerala.

Do not maintain close contact with patients confirmed to be having Nipah virus, including sharing utensils, clothes, and bed linen. Do not maintain close contact with patients and sharing beds with patients Do not keep contact with patients who died of Nipah virus infection. Go for self-medication

-Issued in public interest