Ranchi: Following the death of two people due to the Nipah virus in West Bengal, the Jharkhand government has gone on high alert. State Health Minister Dr. Irfan Ansari has directed civil surgeons of all districts to remain in alert mode and take immediate action in case of any suspected situation. Necessary instructions have also been issued to Additional Secretary of the Health Department, Ajay Kumar.
The Health Minister said that the Nipah virus is an extremely dangerous and fatal zoonotic disease that spreads from animals to humans. Initial symptoms include fever, headache, cough, sore throat, and difficulty in breathing. In severe cases, the virus can affect the brain, leading to encephalitis, brain attack–like conditions, and even coma.
He further informed that the Nipah virus primarily spreads through fruit-eating bats. Infection can also occur through contact with infected animals—especially pigs—consumption of contaminated meat, or direct contact with bodily fluids of an infected person.
According to the Health Minister, the mortality rate of the Nipah virus can range from 40 to 75 percent, making it a highly serious public health threat. Keeping this in view, the government has instructed strict surveillance, a rapid reporting system, and extensive public awareness campaigns across the state.
Dr. Irfan Ansari stated that the Jharkhand government is fully prepared to prevent the spread of the Nipah virus and has directed the Health Department to remain vigilant at every level to ensure that no outbreak occurs in the state.
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