At least nine dead after Nipah virus spreads in Kerala

Panic and grief pervaded Kozhikode medical college hospital in northern Kerala where most of the suspected Nipah virus-affected victims are undergoing treatment. Scores of people affected by fever and minor ailments swarmed the hospital fearing the disease, as doctors and paramedical staff found the sudden rush overwhelming. So far nine people have died due to the virus and 12 are admitted in various hospitals, while 20 others are under observation. There is no vaccine or medicine for the disease and the only form of treatment is supportive medicines and palliative care.