Stakeholder perspective of handling the deceased during the nipah virus outbreak in Kerala, South India, 2018

Abstract

In any outbreak situation, a poor stakeholder response can impede the outbreak control and can have high economic and social cost. We conducted a qualitative study to understand stakeholder response in handling of the Nipah deceased persons during the outbreak of Nipah in Kerala, 2018. To understand the responses and to generate knowledge from the data, we used grounded theory approach for the study and conducted in-depth interviews and focus group discussion. Mixed public response and swift state response emerged as the main themes in our study. Under the “mixed public response,” three categories emerged, including anxiety and fear, conflicting religious beliefs, and humanitarian concern. Under the “swift state response,” the categories emerged were critical resources and robust guidance. A collective effort involving the administration, local and religious groups, and a culturally acceptable scientific protocol proved to be good examples of gaining social acceptance. Kerala puts forth a model of efficient community engagement and communication to gain public support and acceptance in a fatal disease outbreak.