A One Health program is vital for preventing zoonotic spillover.

Nipah Virus Cases in Kerala

• Two Nipah cases detected in Kerala, including one fatality, highlight the need for preventable infectious diseases.

• An adolescent girl from Malappuram died from the virus on July 1, while a 38-year-old woman from Palakkad is battling for life.

• As many as 425 people in contact lists of two Nipah-infected persons in three districts in Kerala have been identified and are under surveillance.

• The health machinery in Kerala is tasked to trace contacts, isolate them, contain infection, and treat all those who show symptoms.

• Nipah is a transmissible viral infection with a high mortality rate, ranging between 40% and 75%.

• Future research could add an effective tool to treat Nipah infections without mortality, but current action is vested in prevention and awareness generation.

• Nipah is transmitted by fruit bats, and consuming contaminated fruits may contribute to its spread.

• Climate change-related factors, particularly anthropogenic activity, are also being monitored.