Alert Issued in Kerala Following Suspected Nipah Virus Cases
Kerala has raised an alert after two suspected cases of the Nipah virus emerged in Kozhikode, Malappuram, and Palakkad. Health officials are taking precautionary measures, including sending samples for further testing and forming response committees. The Nipah virus, known for its high mortality rate, poses significant health risks, prompting the government to act swiftly to prevent its spread. As the situation develops, authorities are coordinating efforts to ensure public safety and health.
| Jul 4, 2025, 18:16 IST
Nipah Virus Alert in Kerala
On Friday, Kerala issued an alert after two suspected cases of the Nipah virus were reported. The alert spans three districts: Kozhikode, Malappuram, and Palakkad. Tests conducted at medical college hospitals in Malappuram and Kozhikode have confirmed the presence of the infection. Health Minister Veena George stated that the suspected cases originate from Palakkad and Malappuram districts. She emphasized that the alert pertains to two new cases of the Nipah virus in the three districts of Kozhikode, Malappuram, and Palakkad.
Further Testing Underway
Samples have also been sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune for further confirmation. While awaiting final results, the government has instructed officials to enhance preventive measures to curb the virus's spread. The health minister announced the formation of 26 committees in the districts to coordinate the response. Police assistance will be utilized to compile contact lists, and state and district-level helplines will be activated. District collectors have been directed to establish containment zones if necessary. The NIV in Pune is the only laboratory in the country capable of culturing the Nipah virus.
Understanding the Nipah Virus
This virus is zoonotic, meaning it can spread from animals to humans, and can also be transmitted through contaminated food or direct human contact. Symptoms of the Nipah virus include fever, headache, muscle pain, vomiting, sore throat, dizziness, altered consciousness, and atypical pneumonia. Infected individuals may experience a range of illnesses, from asymptomatic infections to severe respiratory disease and fatal encephalitis. The mortality rate for Nipah virus disease (NiVD) is around 50%, making it one of the most dangerous viral infections.