Important !! Online Classes in Kerala due to outbreak of Nipah Virus
Important !! Online Classes in Kerala due to outbreak of Nipah Virus
PUNE: The district administration of Kozhikode in Kerala has announced the closure of educational facilities until September 24 due to the outbreak of the Nipah virus.
This includes a range of educational institutions, from schools to professional colleges and tuition centres. To ensure uninterrupted learning, online classes will continue during this period.
According to the state Health Minister Veena George, the number of individuals who have been in contact with infected persons is increasing.
A recent update from a news agency revealed that the list now comprises over a thousand names, of which 327 are healthcare workers. Additionally, 29 people from other districts also appear on the contact list of those infected with the Nipah virus.
The Health Minister has emphasised that of the people classified as high risk, 122 are healthcare professionals, putting them at greater risk compared to 175 common individuals also categorised under high-risk.
The Nipah virus is a highly contagious disease that can cause symptoms ranging from mild respiratory issues to fatal encephalitis. It is transmitted from animals like bats or pigs and even from human to human.
No vaccines or specific treatments are available, and the primary recourse is supportive care.
Initial symptoms of the virus include fever, headaches, muscle pain, vomiting and sore throat. Advanced stages can manifest as severe respiratory problems, encephalitis, seizures and even coma within 24 to 48 hours.
The time between infection and symptom onset varies from four to 14 days but can extend up to 45 days. While most survivors recover fully from acute encephalitis, around 20% face lingering neurological issues such as seizures and personality changes.
