West Nile fever in Kerala – Surveillance ramped up in DK

Team Udayavani, May 20, 2024, 9:42 AM IST

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Mangaluru: The health department will start monitoring Dakshina Kannada district after “West Nile” fever was found in Malappuram, Kozhikode, and Thrissur areas of Kerala.

All medical colleges in Dakshina Kannada have been alerted. They must report any patients showing symptoms of West Nile fever. While no cases have been detected in Dakshina Kannada yet, special attention is being given to border areas.

Training Starts Today

Dr. H.R. Thimmaiah, the District Health Officer (DHO) told “Udayavani” that the Health Department will begin training its staff on May 20.

What is West Nile Fever?

West Nile fever is a disease spread by mosquitoes.

Individuals suffering from this condition may exhibit symptoms such as fever, headaches, extreme tiredness, body aches, nausea, vomiting, episodes of fainting, skin rashes, shaking, and stiffness in the neck.

According to WHO, about 80% of people who get infected will have mild symptoms or none at all. However, in some cases, it can be more serious and affect the brain and nervous system. This can lead to severe conditions like encephalitis (brain inflammation) or meningitis (inflammation of the membranes surrounding the brain and spinal cord).

It is important to seek medical help if any of these symptoms appear, especially after a mosquito bite.