Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala’s health authorities have issued a public health alert across the districts of Kozhikode, Malappuram, and Palakkad after two suspected cases of Nipah virus were reported. The cases involve the death of an 18-year-old girl in Kozhikode and a 38-year-old woman in Palakkad who is currently under treatment. The symptoms shown by both individuals are consistent with Nipah infection, prompting the government to launch urgent containment and monitoring measures.
Health Minister Veena George chaired an emergency meeting with officials and public health experts to discuss containment strategies and ensure the readiness of medical facilities in the affected districts. A network of rapid response teams has been activated to carry out contact tracing, symptom monitoring, and community-level surveillance in vulnerable areas.
Hospitals have been directed to isolate suspected patients and remain equipped with necessary protective gear and ICU beds. Authorities are also reviewing any unusual or unexplained deaths reported in recent weeks to identify potential hidden cases. Samples from both individuals have been sent to the National Institute of Virology in Pune for confirmation.
Public health officials have urged the public not to panic but to remain cautious. Residents are advised to avoid consuming fruits potentially contaminated by animals, particularly bats, which are considered primary carriers of the Nipah virus. Community awareness campaigns are being organized to educate people on symptoms and preventive measures.
Kerala has experienced multiple outbreaks of Nipah virus in the past, each time resulting in significant health crises. This fresh alert marks a renewed challenge for the state, which has built up significant experience in virus containment but remains vulnerable due to the deadly nature of the disease and its lack of a definitive cure.