Kozhikode: The Nipah Research Institute based in Kozhikode has begun awareness campaigns as part of the Nipah prevention program. Nipah had been reported at various places in the state, mainly during May – September, which is considered the reproductive season of bats. However, the institute has already started issuing advisories after it was found that the reproductive season of bats begins from February onwards. Dr TS Aneesh, nodal officer of the Nipah prevention program, said that proper instructions have been given to take the necessary precautions to prevent virus transmission and to provide the treatment protocol for those who have symptoms.

Advisories have been issued to the public in five districts identified as Nipah hotspots in the state. 33 persons tested positive for the Nipah virus in six outbreaks between 2018 and 2024. Meanwhile, 80 per cent of the cases were reported in Kozhikode. Precautionary measures would be taken in Malappuram, Wayanad, Kannur, Kozhikode and Ernakulam districts identified as the Nipah hotspots.

ADVERTISEMENT

How to stay alert?
Studies have proven that Nipah is transmitted from bats to humans. However, the virus had mostly spread through human-to-human transmission. So, healthcare workers have been instructed to focus on reducing virus transmission. Earlier, the virus transmission had mostly happened in hospitals. Dr TS Aneesh said that people should try to avoid hospital visits as much as possible, and those who need to go should wear masks. Here are the precautions that need to be taken against Nipah:
1) Avoid fruits bitten by animals and birds
2) If eating any fruits, make sure they are washed thoroughly
3) Avoid drinks stored in open vessels, like toddy
4) While picking fruits from the ground, wear gloves
5) Wear gloves if you are in an area where bats are commonly spotted. If not in a position to wear gloves, stay alert and wash your hands well with soap and water at the earliest.
6) Don’t drive bats away from their natural flocking place. Scared bats produce more body secretions. 

TAGS

The comments posted here/below/in the given space are not on behalf of Onmanorama. The person posting the comment will be in sole ownership of its responsibility. According to the central government's IT rules, obscene or offensive statement made against a person, religion, community or nation is a punishable offense, and legal action would be taken against people who indulge in such activities.