Kerala Confirms Nipah Virus in 14-Year-Old Boy: Health Minister's Urgent Measures

A 14-year-old in Kerala's Malappuram tested positive for Nipah virus, confirmed by NIV Pune. Health Minister Veena George announced restrictions and preventive measures to curb the spread.

A 14-year-old boy has tested positive for the Nipah virus in Kerala's Malappuram district, Health Minister Veena George announced on Saturday. The confirmation came from the National Institute of Virology (NIV), Pune. Authorities are compiling a contact list and will send samples of those in the high-risk category for testing. A meeting with the district collector and police chief will discuss imposing restrictions within a 3 km radius of the epicenter. Residents are advised to wear masks and stay vigilant.

Earlier in the day, Health Minister George chaired a high-level meeting to address the suspected Nipah virus case. The meeting focused on preventive measures and ensuring public safety. Officials reviewed the current situation and evaluated the steps taken so far to control the outbreak.

Minister George has arrived in Malappuram to spearhead the containment efforts. The government has formed committees to supervise the implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for Nipah virus control. The meeting was attended by senior officials, including the Additional Chief Secretary of the Health Department, the Director of the National Health Mission, and the District Collectors of Malappuram and Kozhikode.

Officials stated that the suspected patient's samples were sent to the Pune virology lab. Last month, the Kerala Health Minister announced an intensification of Nipah prevention efforts, particularly during the months of May to September when the virus is most likely to spread.

(With inputs from agencies.)