Nipah Virus Death: Masks Made Mandatory in Kerala’s Malappuram
Kerala News
Authorities in Kerala’s Malappuram district have enforced strict protocols following the death of a 23-year-old due to Nipah virus infection. The use of masks is now mandatory across the district, starting Monday, until further notice.
Health and revenue officials are working to trace the deceased’s movements and contacts to ensure all Nipah virus safety measures are followed. The victim, a Bengaluru-based student from Chembaram, Wandoor, died last Monday at a private hospital in Perinthalmanna.
Doctors, suspecting Nipah infection, received a positive test result from Kozhikode Medical College. On Sunday, Health Minister Veena George confirmed that the Pune virology lab also verified the Nipah virus infection.
In response, authorities have implemented strict protocols around Thiruvali panchayat, covering four wards and one neighboring ward in Mampad panchayat. Schools, theaters, and public gatherings in these areas have been suspended until further orders, with guidelines issued to ensure all Nipah protocols are followed during any necessary events.
The deceased had recently returned from Bengaluru with a leg injury and developed a fever, visiting two local clinics before being admitted to the hospital where he later passed away.
This marks the second Nipah-related death in Malappuram this year, following the death of a 14-year-old boy in July. A similar clampdown was imposed then. In 2018, the first South Indian outbreak of the Nipah virus claimed 18 lives. The virus, spread by fruit bats, can infect both animals and humans.
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