The Nipah virus is spreading rapidly in Kerala. Most people are under surveillance in the districts of Malappuram, Palakkad, and Kozhikode. The government is on alert and has appealed to the public to remain vigilant.
Nipah Virus: The infection of the Nipah virus is rapidly spreading in Kerala. State Health Minister Veena George, calling the situation serious, chaired a high-level review meeting and issued strict directives to the concerned authorities. The government has appealed to the public to exercise caution and follow health-related guidelines.
Highest Surveillance in Malappuram
The Health Minister informed that a total of 425 people are currently under surveillance in the state. Of these, the highest number, 228, are from the Malappuram district. 110 people from Palakkad and 87 from Kozhikode are also under surveillance. In Malappuram, 12 patients are undergoing treatment, of whom five are in serious condition and have been admitted to the ICU.
Healthcare Workers Also Affected by the Virus
All 87 people included in the surveillance list in Kozhikode district are healthcare workers. In Palakkad, 61 healthcare workers are under surveillance. The report of one infected patient has come back negative, while another person in Palakkad has been kept in isolation.
Government Intensifies Surveillance and Testing
The health department has issued instructions to ensure fever surveys, door-to-door checks, and mental health counseling in the concerned districts. Route maps of positive cases in Malappuram and Palakkad have also been released so that people can be advised to stay away from infected areas.
All Medical Services on Alert Mode
The 108 ambulance service and all medical facilities, including government hospitals, have been put on high alert. Testing to identify the source of the virus has also been intensified. The meeting organized by the Health Minister was attended by the Additional Chief Secretary, Health Mission Director, Director of Medical Education, District Collectors, police, and senior officials from other departments.
Death of a Young Woman in Malappuram, New Case in Palakkad
An 18-year-old girl from the Malappuram district has died from the Nipah virus. In addition, a 38-year-old woman in the Palakkad district has tested positive. Healthcare workers have so far visited and checked over 2,000 homes in the Palakkad district.
Appeal for Public Vigilance
The state government has appealed to the public to avoid unnecessary gatherings, especially in containment zones. They have been advised to use masks (especially N95), avoid travel, and sanitize their hands frequently. If anyone experiences symptoms such as cold, cough, fever, headache, or difficulty breathing, they should immediately inform the nearest health center.
