The Pinarayi Vijayan government in Kerala took immediate action on Monday, imposing restrictions in containment zones in Malappuram district following the death of a 24-year-old student from Nipah virus infection. This move aims to prevent the spread of the deadly virus.
As part of these restrictions, all shops in the containment zones are required to close by 7 PM. Places of mass gathering, including schools, colleges, madrassas, anganwadis, tuition centers, and cinema halls, have been ordered to remain shut until further notice. The government has also advised residents to wear masks in public spaces.
Meanwhile, State Health Minister Veena George released an updated list of 175 individuals who had contact with the deceased student. Of these, 74 were healthcare workers, 126 were identified as primary contacts, and 49 were classified as secondary contacts.
The health minister further stated that 104 individuals from the primary contact list are considered high-risk. Ten people are currently receiving treatment at the Manjeri Medical College Hospital, and samples from 13 individuals have been sent for testing. The health department has also mobilized 66 teams to conduct fever surveys within a 3-kilometer radius of the deceased student’s residence.
Earlier on Sunday, Minister George confirmed that the 24-year-old man who died at a private hospital in Malappuram had tested positive for the Nipah virus. The deceased, a native of Malappuram’s Naduvath, was a student in Bengaluru who had returned home for treatment of a leg injury. He later developed a fever and sought medical attention at different hospitals before passing away on September 9th. This marks the second Nipah virus death in Kerala this year.
The World Health Organisation (WHO) has categorized Nipah virus as a priority pathogen due to its potential to cause widespread epidemics. The Kerala government’s swift response and comprehensive measures are crucial in containing the virus and ensuring the safety of the public.
