Jharkhand Government on Alert: All Districts on High Alert to Combat Nipah Virus

Following the deaths of two people due to Nipah virus infection in West Bengal, the Jharkhand government has become fully vigilant. State Health Minister Dr. Irfan Ansari has instructed the civil surgeons of all districts to remain on high alert and exercise caution at every level. The Health Minister has also issued necessary guidelines to the Additional Chief Secretary of the Health Department, Ajay Kumar, in this regard, so that any potential situation can be dealt with in a timely manner.

Dr. Ansari stated that the Nipah virus is an extremely dangerous zoonotic disease that spreads from animals to humans. Its initial symptoms include fever, headache, cough, difficulty breathing, sore throat, and in severe cases, it can affect the brain, leading to encephalitis and coma. This virus primarily spreads through fruit bats. It can also spread through contact with infected animals, especially pigs, by consuming infected meat, or through direct contact with saliva, blood, and other bodily fluids of an infected person. The Health Minister said that the Nipah virus has a very high mortality rate, which can range from 40 to 75 percent. This is why it is considered an extremely serious and deadly disease.

Dr. Irfan Ansari has instructed all districts to maintain strict surveillance, establish a rapid reporting system, and conduct public awareness programs. The aim is to provide the general public with complete information about the symptoms, prevention, and precautions related to the Nipah virus, so that there is no outbreak in Jharkhand. He clarified that the Jharkhand government is fully prepared to prevent the Nipah virus and the health department has been instructed to remain vigilant at every level.