2 suspected Nipah Virus cases detected in Bengal, both critical
The Nipah virus, a highly infectious and deadly disease, has once again raised its head in India. Two suspected cases of Nipah virus were detected in West Bengal’s Barasat, officials said on Monday. The infection was detected in two nurses, one male and one female, who are currently admitted to Barasat Hospital in critical condition. This news has sent shockwaves across the country, and the Union Health Ministry has swung into action to contain the outbreak.
According to reports, the two nurses were working at a private hospital in Barasat, where they came into contact with a patient who was suspected to have been infected with the Nipah virus. The nurses started showing symptoms of the disease, including fever, headache, and respiratory problems, and were immediately admitted to the hospital. The hospital authorities have confirmed that the nurses are in a critical condition and are being treated with utmost care.
The Nipah virus is a zoonotic disease, meaning it can be transmitted between animals and humans. It is typically spread through direct contact with infected bats, pigs, or other animals, as well as through contact with contaminated food or water. The virus can also be spread from person to person through close contact with an infected individual.
The symptoms of Nipah virus infection can range from mild to severe and can include fever, headache, muscle pain, and respiratory problems. In severe cases, the virus can cause encephalitis, or inflammation of the brain, which can lead to coma or even death. The virus has a high mortality rate, with reports suggesting that it can kill up to 90% of those infected.
The Union Health Minister, JP Nadda, has taken immediate action to contain the outbreak. A National Joint Outbreak Response Team has been sent to Barasat to check the outbreak and provide assistance to the state health authorities. The team will work closely with the state health department to identify the source of the infection, trace contacts, and provide treatment to those affected.
The health ministry has also issued guidelines to the state health department to take preventive measures to contain the outbreak. This includes setting up isolation wards, providing personal protective equipment to healthcare workers, and conducting awareness campaigns to educate the public about the disease.
The detection of suspected Nipah virus cases in West Bengal has raised concerns about the spread of the disease in the country. The virus was first detected in India in 2001, and since then, there have been several outbreaks in different parts of the country. The most recent outbreak was in Kerala in 2018, where 17 people died due to the virus.
The Indian government has taken several measures to prevent the spread of the Nipah virus, including setting up a national surveillance system to monitor cases of the disease. The government has also conducted awareness campaigns to educate the public about the disease and has provided training to healthcare workers on how to treat and manage cases of Nipah virus infection.
In conclusion, the detection of suspected Nipah virus cases in West Bengal is a cause for concern, and the Union Health Ministry has taken immediate action to contain the outbreak. The public is advised to take preventive measures to avoid the spread of the disease, including avoiding close contact with anyone who is suspected to be infected and following proper hygiene practices. The government will continue to monitor the situation closely and take all necessary measures to prevent the spread of the disease.
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