Experiential learnings from the Nipah virus outbreaks in Kerala towards containment of infectious public health emergencies in India

Epidemiol Infect. 2020 Apr 23:148:e90. doi: 10.1017/S0950268820000825.

Abstract

Nipah virus (NiV) outbreak occurred in Kozhikode district, Kerala, India in 2018 with a case fatality rate of 91% (21/23). In 2019, a single case with full recovery occurred in Ernakulam district. We described the response and control measures by the Indian Council of Medical Research and Kerala State Government for the 2019 NiV outbreak. The establishment of Point of Care assays and monoclonal antibodies administration facility for early diagnosis, response and treatment, intensified contact tracing activities, bio-risk management and hospital infection control training of healthcare workers contributed to effective control and containment of NiV outbreak in Ernakulam.

Keywords: Biosafety; Kerala; Nipah virus; containment; public health emerging infection.

Publication types

  • Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

MeSH terms

  • Body Remains
  • Communicable Disease Control / organization & administration*
  • Disease Outbreaks
  • Emergencies*
  • Henipavirus Infections / epidemiology*
  • Henipavirus Infections / prevention & control*
  • Humans
  • India / epidemiology
  • Medical Waste Disposal
  • Nipah Virus*
  • Personal Protective Equipment
  • Public Health*

Substances

  • Medical Waste Disposal