14-year-old tests positive for Nipah virus in Malappuram; Health Minister Veena George confirms case

Malappuram (Kerala): A 14-year-old boy has tested positive for the Nipah virus in Malappuram, Kerala, Health Minister Veena George said on Saturday.

Health Minister Veena George said, “NIV Pune has confirmed that the suspected case of a 14-year-old boy is Nipah positive. A contact list of the boys is being prepared and samples of those in high-risk category will be sent for testing. A meeting will be held with the district collector and district police chief to discuss the restrictions to be imposed within 3 km radius of the epicentre. Residents of Malappuram will have to wear masks compulsorily and remain cautious.”

About the high-level meeting convened by Health Minister Veena George

Earlier on Saturday, Veena George convened a high-level meeting in Malappuram district after reports of a suspected case of ‘Nipah’ virus were received in the state.

During the meeting, the measures to be taken to prevent the spread of the virus and ensure the safety of the public were discussed. The officials also discussed the current situation and the steps taken so far to control the outbreak.

Minister Veena George reached Malappuram to lead the efforts to control the outbreak. The government has also constituted committees to monitor the implementation of Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) for combating the Nipah virus.

The meeting was attended by senior officials including the Additional Chief Secretary of the Health Ministry, the Director of the National Health Mission and the District Collectors of Malappuram and Kozhikode.

According to authorities, the samples of the suspected patient have been sent to the virology laboratory in Pune.

Last month, Kerala’s health minister announced that Nipah prevention will be stepped up in the state, especially during the critical months of May to September, when the virus is most likely to spread.

Published: Sunday, July 21, 2024, 09:47 AM IST