Nipah Outbreak, School closed news, school closed in Kerala's Kozhikode: The District magistrate of Kerala's Kozikode has extended the school and college holidays till September 16 due to Nipah Virus outbreak in the region. The closure of schools also applies to all anganwadis, Madrasas, Tuition Centres, and professional colleges. The decision came into consideration in the continution of previously announced two day holiday on September 14 and 15.
The decision has been taken to curb the spread of the rare and deadly virus. According to the local media reports, there is no change in the exam dates. The educational institutions can conduct the online exams on these days.
In a facebook post, Kozikode DC A Geeta said, 'All tuition centres and coaching centres in the district should not function on these days. Educational insttitutes can arrange an online classes. These days should not be an occassion for celebrations. Avoid unncessary travel and gatherings. Caution is prevention'.
According to the recent updates, a total of six patients have tested positive for the virus since the outbreak. The last patient to test positive was a 39-year-old man taking treatment in a private hospital where Nipah-positive people were treated for other ailments earlier in Kozikode district. Out of the total six infected patients, two have died of the virus infection.
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What is Nipah Virus?
Nipah is a zoonotic virus that spreads between animals, and people. This virus is also known to cause illness in pigs and people. Infection with NIV is associated with swelling of the brain and can cause mild to severe illness and even death. The outbreaks occur almost annually in parts of Asia, Primarily Bangladesh, and India.
What are its symptoms?
Infection with Nipah virus (NiV) can cause mild to severe disease, including swelling of the brain and potentially death. Its symptoms typically appear in 4 to 14 days following exposure to the virus. Initially, symptoms like fever, headache, cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing, and vomiting may appear. Severe symptoms include Disorientation, drowsiness, or confusion, Seizures, Coma, and Brain swelling (encephalitis).
What is Nipha Virus Treatment?
According to Centres for disease control and Prevention, there is no licence available for Nipah Virus Infection, treatment is limited to supportive care including rest, hydration, and treatment of symptoms as they occur.
