India: Nipah virus outbreak continues in Kerala state /update 3

Event

The official death toll for the ongoing Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala state has risen to 16 as of Thursday, May 31; 17 individuals are still receiving treatment at hospitals. Furthermore, at least 94 individuals have been quarantined in their homes. 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.