Kerala's Battle Against Nipah: 16 More Contacts Test Negative

Kerala Health Minister Veena George announced that 16 more individuals linked to the boy who succumbed to Nipah virus have tested negative. Surveillance and control measures continue as central health experts assess the situation in Malappuram.

Kerala Health Minister Veena George confirmed on Wednesday that test results for 16 more contacts of the 14-year-old boy who died of Nipah virus have returned negative. The boy from Malappuram passed away on July 21 while undergoing treatment for Nipah infection.

Participating in a Nipah review meeting held at the Malappuram Collector's Conference Hall via online mode, George reported that out of the 58 samples tested, 16 returned negative. She added that all these contacts fall under the low-risk category.

George also noted that three more individuals were admitted to hospitals on Wednesday, bringing the current total to 21. This includes 17 people who have been in contact with Nipah virus patients. Additionally, 12 new people have been added to the secondary contact list, raising the total to 472, with 220 classified as high-risk.

A fever survey was conducted in 8,376 houses in Pandikkad and Anakkayam panchayats on Wednesday, adding up to a total of 26,431 houses surveyed to date. The survey is expected to conclude by Thursday. Counseling was provided to 224 people as part of mental health support.

Meanwhile, a Central team of health experts visited Malappuram to assess the ongoing situation. The four-member team included Dr. Ananthesh and Dr. Jithesh from the Disease Control Centre, wildlife officer Dr. Gajendra, and another expert from the Animal Husbandry Department. They held discussions with state health officials and inspected the special Nipah control room as well as isolation wards.

The team also met the parents and family members of the Nipah victim and participated in an evaluation meeting at the district collectorate.

(With inputs from agencies.)