Nipah Infection: Tamil Nadu Health Department advises people to avoid fruits bitten by birds

Tamil Nadu: Following the Nipah virus outbreak in West Bengal, the Tamil Nadu Public Health Department has advised people not to eat fruits bitten by birds or animals and to avoid drinking Pataner.

An outbreak of Nipah has been detected in Nadia district of West Bengal. Two nurses have been infected and are undergoing intensive treatment. Following this, the Union Health Ministry has advised all states to increase surveillance and precautionary measures across the country.

Although Tamil Nadu has not yet been affected, people have been urged to remain vigilant and take preventive measures.

A press release issued by Public Health Director, Dr. Somasundaram, stated: Nipah virus is an animal-borne disease. It spreads to humans through fruit bats, horses, dogs, and pigs.

The disease is spread by eating fruit contaminated with bat saliva or by contact with an infected person.

Its main symptoms are fever, headache, vomiting, confusion, sleepiness, difficulty breathing or fainting, and seizures. Symptoms appear within 6 to 21 days of infection.

If anyone experiences these symptoms, especially after traveling to affected areas of West Bengal or coming into contact with a sick person, they should immediately go to the nearest government hospital.

People should avoid eating unwashed or fallen fruits. Wash hands with soap before eating. Avoid drinking beverages like Patanir and Kallu.

Do not go near unattended or unsealed wells. The Directorate of Public Health and Disease Prevention has instructed district health officials to actively monitor disease prevention activities and take all necessary precautions, with special attention to border districts.

The Tamil Nadu government is actively taking all preventive measures to prevent the spread of the disease. Therefore, it is stated that people need not fear the Nipah virus.