Jakarta Warns: Skip Open Fruit to Dodge Deadly Nipah Virus
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- Jakarta’s health chief Ani Ruspitawati urges avoiding open or damaged fruit to curb Nipah virus risks from fruit bats, stressing hygiene and quick medical checks for symptoms like fever and headaches.
- Nipah virus, a deadly zoonotic threat, spreads via contaminated fruit and bat contact, says Jakarta Health Agency—wash produce, shun the damaged, and seek help for early signs like muscle pain.
- Amid Nipah fears, DKI Jakarta advises clean habits: no exposed fruit, avoid sick animals, and rush to clinics if fever or breathing issues follow potential exposure.
The Jakarta Health Agency has called on residents to stay vigilant against Nipah virus transmission by steering clear of damaged or exposed fruit.
Jakarta Health Agency Head Ani Ruspitawati explained that such fruit poses a contamination risk, particularly from bat bites.
“People are urged to maintain food hygiene, wash fruit before eating, avoid contact with sick animals, and skip open or damaged fruit suspected of bat exposure,” Ani said in Jakarta on Tuesday.
She added that the Nipah virus is a dangerous zoonotic disease that spreads from animals to humans and even between people, with a notably high fatality rate.
Transmission of the Nipah virus, she noted, occurs through direct contact with infected animals—especially fruit bats.
It can also spread via contaminated food or drinks, as well as close contact with infected individuals.
“Transmission happens through contact with infected animals, particularly fruit bats, consumption of contaminated food or drinks, and close contact with patients,” Ani stated.
Early symptoms of Nipah virus infection include fever, headaches, and muscle pain, she continued.
Without prompt treatment, these can progress to respiratory distress and brain inflammation, or encephalitis.
Ani reminded the public to always practice clean and healthy living habits as a key preventive measure.
Residents are advised to seek medical help immediately if they experience symptoms pointing to Nipah virus after potential exposure.
“Get checked at a health facility right away if symptoms appear after risky contact,” Ani urged.
Indonesianpost.com | Antara
