According to the ministry, there are currently no registered cases of the Nipah virus in Kazakhstan. However, strict checks are being conducted at the border to prevent the spread of the infection, especially for people arriving from Southeast Asia. Hospitals have ensured supplies of medications and personal protective equipment. The Ministry of Health clarified that the Nipah virus is carried by animals such as bats and pigs and can be transmitted from person to person, as well as through contaminated food and drinks.
— Symptoms of the disease may include high fever, headaches, and general weakness, and in severe cases, there may be damage to the central nervous system and the development of pneumonia, — the agency warned.
Kazakhstanis planning trips to India and other countries in the region are advised to take precautions and seek medical help immediately if they experience suspicious symptoms. There is currently no vaccine for the new virus. Earlier, emergency measures were implemented in the Indian state of West Bengal after the Nipah virus was detected, where the mortality rate from the disease can reach 75%.
The health authorities of West Bengal activated anti-epidemic measures after confirming five cases of infection. About 100 people who had contact with the infected individuals were quarantined, as reported by The Independent.
Among the infected were medical workers. In Kolkata, the virus was detected in two nurses, their condition is assessed as critical. This information was confirmed by a senior representative of the state health department. Infection was also recorded in a doctor and another hospital staff member, raising concerns among authorities about the hospital transmission of the infection.
