Experiential learnings from the Nipah virus outbreaks in Kerala towards containment of infectious public health emergencies in India

Abstract

Nipah virus (NiV) outbreak occurred in Kozhikode district, Kerala, India in 2018 with a case fatality rate of 91 percent (21/23). In 2019, a single case with full recovery occurred in Ernakulam district. We described the response and control measures by the Indian Council of Medical Research and Kerala State Government for the 2019 NiV outbreak. The establishment of Point of Care assays and monoclonal antibodies administration facility for early diagnosis, response and treatment, intensified contact tracing activities, bio-risk management, and hospital infection control training of healthcare workers contributed to effective control and containment of NiV outbreak in Ernakulam.