Nipah outbreak suspected in India's Kerala, health minister convenes high-level meet

Health officials in the southern Indian state of Kerala were reportedly scrambling on Saturday (Jul 20) amid a suspected outbreak of the Nipah virus in northern Malappuram district. Earlier on Friday, a 14-year-old boy was rushed to a private hospital in Kozhikode with symptoms of the zoonotic virus. His samples were sent to the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune for further confirmation. As per media reports, the condition of the boy is stable and he is being treated as per protocols.

Kerala Health Minister Veena George on Saturday held a high-level meeting with top officials and discussed measures to prevent a potential outbreak.

The Nipah outbreak has been recorded in the state four times in the past. The first outbreak was recorded in 2018 when the virus claimed 17 lives. In 2023, two patients lost their lives to Nipah. Further outbreaks were recorded in 2019 and 2021.

A statement from George's office said the result from the NIV lab was still awaited but steps have been taken to prevent the spread of the virus already.

"The actions would be coordinated according to the Standard Operating Procedure (SOP) formulated as per the government order with regard to Nipah prevention," the statement added.

The health secretary, National Health Mission state director, district collectors of Kozhikode and Malappuram and health director took part in the Saturday meeting and received necessary instructions from the minister.

George earlier urged the state residents not to destroy bat habitats, as disturbing them could increase the risk of virus transmission.

She warned people against consuming fruits that had bite marks on them and consuming honey from banana peels. She also called for maintaining proper hygiene if anyone comes into contact with bats.

"We must all be vigilant and proactive in our efforts to prevent the spread of Nipah. By following these guidelines, we can protect ourselves and our loved ones," the health minister said.