New Delhi: Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya on Monday confirmed two deaths due to Nipah virus in Kerala’s Kozhikode district. The confirmation follows a district-wide health alert that was issued on Monday, after two “unnatural” deaths reported at a private hospital.
“A team dispatched from the central government to Kerala to assess the situation and provide support to the state authorities in managing the Nipah virus outbreak,” Mandaviya said.
The first death took place on August 30, with the second death reported just this Monday, according to media reports.
To address the situation, the Kerala government has established a control center in Kozhikode and urged the public to wear masks as a precautionary measure.
Earlier on Tuesday, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan cautioned the public to remain vigilant and assured that there was no need for alarm, emphasizing that those who had close contact with the victims were already receiving medical treatment.
“There is no cause for concern. Contact tracing and treatment are underway for those who had contact with the two affected individuals. Vigilance and adherence to the health department’s action plan are essential in addressing this situation. We urge everyone to cooperate.” the Chief Minister said.
In 2018, there was an outbreak of the Nipah virus in the districts of Kozhikode and Malappuram. Subsequently, in 2021, a case of Nipah virus was identified in Kozhikode.
The Nipah Virus, which originates from fruit bats, poses a potential threat to both humans and animals, as acknowledged by the World Health Organization (WHO). In addition to respiratory symptoms, this virus is associated with a range of symptoms such as fever, muscle pain, headaches, dizziness, and nausea.