Nipah in West Bengal: Two nurses positive, more than 100 quarantined; how to stay safe

After a male and female nurse recently tested positive for the Nipah virus in West Bengal, another nurse and a junior doctor have also developed early symptoms of the infection, as per reports. Around 100 people are also being quarantined. A senior official from WB state health department told the Hindustan Times that the doctor and the nurse are from Burdwan Medical College and Hospital in Bardhaman, and they are admitted to the ID&BG Hospital in Beleghata. The nurses, who first tested positive, are reportedly in critical condition, are in a coma and are admitted to the ICCU. They are also on ventilator support.

Around 38 medical staffers at Burdwan Hospital have also been asked to stay in isolation after coming into contact with one of the nurses. Apparently, a wedding in Nadia district of West Bengal is suspected to be the source of the exposure, where one of the nurses consumed raw date palm sap (khejurer rosh). It's a drink that is widely consumed in the region in winter. However, it can be deadly for humans if contaminated. In 2007, Nadia had a previous, small Nipah outbreak, and its source was the raw palm date sap. Here's everything you need to know about Nipah virus, to stay safe. 

What is Nipah virus?
A zoonotic virus, Nipah, spreads between animals and humans, mainly through fruit bats. It can also spread through cats, dogs, goats and horses. 

How to stay safe from Nipah?
1) Avoid exposure to sick animals, especially pigs and bats
2) Stay away from foods that have a contamination possibility. This includes foods like raw date palm sap or the fruit itself.
3)Take precautions when going near a Nipah infected person
4) Use protective equipment like masks
5) Disinfect your surfaces and surroundings

Does it have a medicine?
Nipah doesn't have a vaccine or medication. All that can be done is managing symptoms.