Mauritius Gears Up for Potential Nipah Virus Presence

Although no cases have been detected in Mauritius, the Ministry of Health is taking proactive measures to prepare for the potential presence of the Nipah virus, which has caused an outbreak in India.

Enhanced surveillance systems at ports and the airport have been implemented to better detect possible virus symptoms among travellers. This strengthening applies not only to personnel at the country’s entry points but also to the laboratory, said Dr. Kursheed Meethoo-Badulla, NCD Coordinator. Given the global interconnectedness, Dr. Badulla warned that it is not impossible for the virus to reach Mauritius, similar to the arrival of COVID-19, hence the heightened surveillance and preparation plan for any eventualities.

Symptoms of Nipah virus infection in humans can vary but often include fever, headaches, muscle aches, confusion, and respiratory symptoms. “Nipah indications resemble those of the flu, but individuals may also experience mental confusion due to brain inflammation caused by the disease. In severe cases, this can lead to disorientation,” Dr. Badulla said. The disease can be potentially fatal.

The Nipah virus is classified by the World Health Organization (WHO) among diseases that have the potential to cause a global epidemic, as was the case with COVID-19. It was first identified in 1998 during an outbreak in Malaysia.

Source: Defi Media