India: Possible spread of Nipah virus to Karnataka state /update 1

Event

There are fears the ongoing deadly Nipah virus outbreak - which was first reported on May 21 in Kerala state, where ten people have died - has spread to Karnataka state. Two suspected cases have been reported in Karnataka as of May 23. The two patients are being monitored by health authorities in the city of Mangalore. State officials have advised residents to remain vigilant for symptoms of the disease. Authorities are expected to take preventive health measures to curb the spread of the disease in the near-term, although additional cases are likely in the coming days and weeks.

Context

The Nipah virus, first identified in 1998, is a disease carried by fruit bats that can induce fever, headache, drowsiness, respiratory illness, disorientation, and mental confusion. Individuals suffering such symptoms can fall into a coma within 24-48 hours. The viral infection has a reported mortality rate of 70 percent. There is no vaccine.

Advice

Individuals in affected areas who are exhibiting the abovementioned symptoms are advised to seek immediate medical attention. Monitor developments to the situation and avoid drinking raw date palm sap, which can be contaminated by fruit bats carrying the disease.