Following the emergence of the Nipah virus in Malappuram, Kerala Health Minister Veena George affirmed that the state is well-equipped to handle the situation. A 14-year-old boy was confirmed positive for the Nipah virus in Malappuram on Saturday, as confirmed by NIV Pune. A list of contacts will be compiled, and samples from high-risk individuals will be tested. A meeting will be convened with the district collector and police chief to discuss restrictions within a 3 km radius of the outbreak's center. Residents of Malappuram are mandated to wear masks and remain vigilant, according to George.
The Health Minister noted that preventive actions have been escalated since the confirmation of the Nipah virus in Malappuram. Based on the Standard Operating Procedures (SOP) established by the government for Nipah control, 25 committees have been formed. Contact tracing commenced on Saturday morning. There are 214 primary contacts, with 60 in the high-risk category. Isolation rooms have been set up at Manjeri Medical College, and additional isolation wards are arranged at Kozhikode Medical College. A route map will be published.
George emphasized that all high-risk contacts will undergo testing. The patient has been transferred to Kozhikode Medical College, and a 24-hour control room has been established. Individuals exhibiting Nipah symptoms are advised to contact the control room. Fever may be accompanied by symptoms such as headache, seizures, cough, or difficulty breathing. Respiratory symptoms increase the likelihood of transmission. In the case of Nipah disease, symptoms may worsen over time.
The minister urged the public to avoid unnecessary hospital visits and stressed the importance of isolating those on the contact list. She reassured the public that there is no need for fear, but cautionary measures are essential. George also held a high-level meeting in Malappuram district following the suspected case reports. The meeting focused on preventive measures to halt the virus's spread and ensure public safety. Officials also assessed the current situation and the measures taken to manage the outbreak.
Last month, the Kerala Health Minister announced intensified Nipah prevention efforts, especially during the critical months of May to September when the virus is most likely to spread.
