Jaipur, July 22, 2024.
Rajasthan’s health department has sent an advisory on the Nipah virus to all chief medical health officers, principal medical officers, principal and controller of all medical colleges, including private institutions across the state.
Dr Ravi Prakash Mathur, director of public health at the health department, wrote to officials across the state, stating, “In view of Nipah cases reported in Kerala, infection with Nipah virus can cause mild to severe infection, including swelling of the brain (encephalitis) and potentially death. Currently, there are no licenced treatments available for Nipah virus infection. Treatment is limited to supportive care, including rest, hydration, and treatment of symptoms as they occur”.
The health department has also shared information on Nipah, an advisory for healthcare personnel, case definitions, guidelines for sample collection and transport, and treatment guidelines to ensure that all healthcare professionals are well-informed and prepared to handle any potential cases.