Authorities in the state of Kerala in southern India are actively responding to the threat of the Nipah virus, which has already killed at least two people. A variety of measures are being taken to limit its spread, including mass testing, introduction of quarantine, informing the population and temporary closure of educational institutions.

Photo: Satyajit Shaw/Keystone Press Agency

Nipah virus causes a serious infectious disease known as “nipah-flu”. It is characterized by acute symptoms, including fever, headache, vomiting, general pain in the body and chest, especially in the muscles. In some cases, patients lose consciousness. Currently, medical care is aimed at relieving symptoms, since there is no specific therapy for the Nipah virus.

It’s important to note that the probability of mass spread of the Nipah virus is small and not comparable to COVID-19. At the moment, there are no registered cases of this disease in Russia, but there is a certain risk of infection, especially when traveling to regions where the virus may be widespread.

To prevent infection, you must follow preventive measures, including personal hygiene and avoidance of contact with the pathogen. Particular caution should be exercised in relation to pigs and bats, as they can serve as carriers of the virus.

In extreme cases, the disease can cause inflammation of the brain and lungs and can sometimes even be fatal. The virus can also harm the nervous and respiratory systems.