Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru (ANK)

Mangaluru, Sep 13: In-charge district health officer, Dr Sudharshan, has urged the public not to panic but to exercise caution regarding the Nipah virus outbreak.

Addressing the media on Wednesday, September 13, Dr Sudharshan emphasized that while two lives have been claimed by the Nipah virus outbreak in neighboring Kerala, no cases have been reported in the district as of now. However, due to the proximity to Kerala, precautionary measures are being implemented in the region.

Dr Sudharshan clarified that Nipah virus presents itself as a viral fever, with symptoms resembling those of a typical viral fever. In some cases, health complications such as brain tumors can arise, and the virus has a 60% mortality rate. Although there is no specific medication for Nipah, symptomatic treatment will be provided.

He emphasized that not every fever should be considered as Nipah virus, and samples will be sent to a lab in Pune for confirmation. Individuals experiencing fever are encouraged to consult doctors and take appropriate medication. In preparation for potential cases, isolation wards have been established in taluk and district level hospitals as a precaution.

Dr Sudharshan also provided an update on other vector-borne diseases, stating that since January, 198 cases of Dengue have been reported compared to 398 cases in the previous year. Additionally, there is a suspected Dengue-related death in the district, and further investigation is needed to confirm the cause. Furthermore, there have been 52 reported cases of Malaria this year.