In the wake of a tragic incident involving a Bengaluru student who succumbed to the Nipah virus in Kerala, the Karnataka Health Department is implementing heightened surveillance measures to ensure public safety.
A total of 41 individuals who had close contact with the 24-year-old postgraduate psychology student are currently quarantined. Health officials urge the public not to panic, as no Nipah virus cases have been reported in Karnataka thus far.
The student, from Thiruvali gram panchayat in Malappuram, Kerala, returned home on August 25 after suffering an injury. He exhibited symptoms of fever starting September 5 and subsequently sought medical attention at a local clinic. His health declined rapidly, culminating in Acute Respiratory Distress Syndrome (ARDS) and Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) at a medical college hospital in Kerala, where he tragically passed away on September 8.
The Karnataka Health Department’s disease surveillance unit conducted a site visit to the educational institution and confirmed that 32 students and staff attended the student’s funeral. It was noted that three students had visited him during his hospitalization.
“Currently, 41 individuals who had primary and secondary contact with the deceased are under quarantine or isolation. Efforts to identify new contacts are ongoing. One primary contact exhibiting symptoms remains stable and is under close monitoring, while all other quarantined contacts are asymptomatic,” officials reported.
“Although no confirmed cases have surfaced in Karnataka, the Health Department has initiated enhanced surveillance measures through Rapid Response Teams (RRT). All quarantined contacts have been instructed to promptly report any symptoms. Ongoing Information, Education, and Communication (IEC) initiatives aim to raise awareness about the disease,” the statement further emphasized.
Published – September 20, 2024 12:53 am IST
