Boy who had recently tested positive for Nipah virus, dies of massive cardiac arrest: Dr Purohit

Kozhikode/New Delhi: Visiting Professor at the Thrissur based Kerala University of Health Sciences , School of Public Health, Dr. Naresh Purohit gave us the unfortunate  news  that a 14- year-old boy, resident of Pandikkad in Mallapuram district, who tested positive for Nipah virus and was was in a critical condition had suffered a massive cardiac arrest around 10.50 am and died at 11.30 am,  at the Kozhikode Medical College in Kerala on Sunday.

Addressing the media reporters here and raising concerns after the death of the boy the noted Epidemiologist Dr Purohit averred that the patient was initially availing treatment at a private clinic in Malappuram on July 12 and later shifted to a private hospital in Perinthalmanna. After suspecting that he may have Nipah virus, the patient was finally shifted to Kozhikode Medical College.

“The southern state, Kerala  has seen numerous Nipah outbreaks in recent years including an outbreak in August 2023 that claimed two lives and affected four other people.” he pointed

“The deadly virus can be transmitted from animals to humans (or between humans) as well as through contaminated food. It can cause a range of symptoms including acute respiratory infection and fatal encephalitis. ” he added

He stated that according to the World Health Organisation, Nipah virus can have a case fatality rate between 40% and 75% depending on the clinical management. There is presently no treatment or vaccine available for either people or animals, and the only option remains supportive care.

He revealed that India had procured monoclonal antibodies from Australia last year in the midst of another Nipah outbreak. These are currently stored at the National Institute of Virology in Pune. The laboratory-made proteins had successfully neutralised Hendra and Nipah viruses during phase-one clinical trials. The drug is currently used on a ‘compassionate’ basis — usage of an unauthorised medicine when no other suitable alternative is present.
He said that usually the medicine should be given to the patient within five days after contracting the virus.

Renowned physician stated that currently the number of people with symptoms are very less and that it is a positive sign that the virus is not spreading much.

“Health authorities have published the route map of the funeral which will be conducted as per WHO Nipah protocol . They have isolated people who came in contact with the patient. The father and uncle of the child are in the Kozhikode medical college and four others listed in the high-risk category undergoing treatment at the Manjeri Medical College Hospital.” he added.

*Dr. Naresh Purohit-MD, DNB, DIH, MHA, MRCP(UK), is an Epidemiologist, Advisor-National Communicable Disease Control Program of Govt. of India, Madhya Pradesh and several state organizations.)

Dr.  Purohit is also Principal Investigator for the Association of Studies For Kidney Care.