By Chaminda Silva

In light of the recent Nipah virus outbreak in the South Indian state of Kerala, health authorities in Sri Lanka are closely monitoring the situation while reassuring the public that there is no immediate threat within the country.

Chief Epidemiologist Dr. Samitha Ginige acknowledged the emergence of the virus but pointed out that Nipah virus is not a novel threat, as it was first identified in Malaysia back in 1998. Dr. Ginige elaborated on the virus’s history, highlighting that since the initial outbreak, sporadic cases have occurred in various regions, including Bangladesh, India, and the Philippines.

“Bangladesh, in particular, witnessed almost annual outbreaks between 2001 and 2013, with most cases linked to contact with fruit bats,” Dr. Ginige explained. While acknowledging the virus’s presence, he emphasized that Sri Lanka is maintaining vigilant surveillance to stay informed about any new developments regarding the virus.

Nipah virus typically manifests symptoms between four and 14 days after exposure, with the most common symptoms being fever, followed by headache, cough, sore throat, difficulty breathing, and vomiting.

The transmission of Nipah virus can occur between humans and other animals, primarily through the consumption of products contaminated by bat urine, saliva, or droppings. Furthermore, human-to-human transmission can transpire through direct contact with infected patients and their bodily secretions, including urine, blood, and respiratory droplets.

Nipah virus is classified as an RNA virus, a category known for its propensity for genetic mutations. These mutations facilitate the virus’s ability to adapt to new hosts and respond to challenges, including those posed by the immune systems of their hosts.

As Sri Lanka remains on high alert, health authorities are working diligently to monitor the situation, ensuring the safety and well-being of the public while keeping a watchful eye on the evolving dynamics of the Nipah virus.