Mangaluru: The people heaved a sigh of relief as the district administration clarified that there were no cases of Nipah Virus infection in the district.
Deputy Commissioner S Sasikanth Senthil put an end to the rumours that Nipah had reached Mangaluru. Addressing the media at his office, Senthil said, “The tests for Nipah virus infection in both suspect cases were negative.”
Health officials in the district had informed that two patients with symptoms similar to Nipah infection were quarantined and blood sample were sent for further investigation to KMC, Manipal on May 23. The negative test results have given relief to the residents of the area.
The DC also informed that there was no need to fear. He urged the people to ignore any rumours spread through social media about Nipah virus infection in the district.
Giving details about the nature of the disease, he said, “Nipah Virus doesn’t spread through the air, until and unless one comes to direct contact with Nipah Virus Infected patient.”
He also cautioned the people not to consume toddy and fruits eaten by bats.”Fruit bats propagate this NiV infection. So, people should avoid consuming palm toddy and fruits eaten by the bats. People should follow the basic cleanliness and hygiene”, he added.
Doctors in the district have been keeping 24×7 surveillance for early detection and prevention of spread of the disease. They have also been provided a standard protocol to follow in case a Nipah Virus infection is found, the DC added.
