Situation under control, says IMA state unit

Thiruvananthapuram: The state branch of Indian Medical Association (IMA) has made it clear that Nipah is not a threat to the society and it will not spread like other epidemics. “Hence there is no need for panic in the state. The situation is well under control,’’ said a statement issued by the IMA.
This is the second time the state is witnessing Nipah outbreak. The first outbreak was limited to Kozhikode and a few cases in Malappuram. This time it has been reported only from Ernakulam so far. Hence there are very remote chances for the virus to spread to other districts, said Dr M E Sugathan, state president of IMA.
The expert committee convened at the IMA headquarters here observed there is a need for taking adequate precautionary measures to isolate the people who have been in contact with Nipah-positive patients. The isolated people should be under strict observation.
The IMA leaders pointed out that unnecessary panic is created during such outbreak and a lot of misconceptions prevail among people. This was witnessed during the first outbreak in Kozhikode where people started staying indoors. There is no need for such panic as it spreads only if you have direct contact with Nipah positives.
The high risk category are healthcare professionals who are directly involved in treating Nipah patients. Hence, the IMA has sent a detailed communique to 30,000 doctors in the state about the precautionary measures that have to be taken while treating patients, said Dr N Sulphi, state secretary of IMA. The IMA has also decided to support the health department by providing specialised masks for healthcare professionals.