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SSR Airport Surveillance Tightened as WHO Warns of Nipah Virus 75% Fatality Rate
Mauritius has reactivated its emergency health response and heightened surveillance at Sir Seewoosagur Ramgoolam International Airport following the confirmation of two Nipah virus cases in India. The Ministry of Health has officially designated Souillac Hospital as the national isolation centre.
The facility is equipped with a specialised unit and the necessary diagnostic kits to detect and manage any suspected cases of the deadly virus.
Strict Monitoring for Travellers
Health authorities are focusing their efforts on passengers arriving from the Indian subcontinent, with a particular emphasis on those travelling from West Bengal.
Under the new protocols:
- 21-Day Monitoring: Both Mauritian citizens and tourists arriving from West Bengal will undergo medical follow-ups for three weeks.
- Public Hotline: Residents can contact the authorities via the 8924 hotline for guidance.
- Isolation Protocol: Anyone exhibiting symptoms will be immediately transferred to Souillac Hospital for isolation and treatment.
A Proven Response Plan
While the Indian government suggests the risk of further spread is currently contained, Mauritius is taking no chances.
The authorities have dusted off a response plan first implemented eight years ago.
The Ministry of Health is advising those travelling to affected regions in India to maintain rigorous hygiene, specifically frequent hand washing and ensuring all fruit is thoroughly cleaned before consumption.
The Deadly Threat of Nipah
The Nipah virus is classified by the World Health Organisation (WHO) as a pathogen with epidemic potential, comparable to Covid-19.
It is primarily transmitted to humans via fruit bats or contaminated food.
The clinical profile of the virus is particularly severe:
- High Mortality: Death rates are estimated between 40% and 75%.
- No Vaccine: There is currently no preventative vaccine available.
- Symptoms: Patients typically suffer from high fever, vomiting, and respiratory distress. In extreme cases, the virus causes brain inflammation (encephalitis) and convulsions, which can lead to a coma.
| Nipah Virus Fast Facts | Details |
| Primary Vectors | Bats, contaminated food |
| Symptoms | Fever, vomiting, respiratory issues, brain inflammation |
| Treatment | Isolation and supportive care (No vaccine) |
| Historical Context | First identified in Malaysian pig farms; previous Kerala outbreak killed 17 |
Source: Defi Media
