The southernmost Indian state of Kerala is bracing for a potential Nipah virus outbreak after a 14-year-old infected boy breathed his last on Sunday (Jul 21). The state health minister said authorities in the Malappuram district have identified at least 60 people in a high-risk category and have taken preventive steps.

Nipah outbreak in Kerala? Teen dies, four develop symptoms; union govt issues advisory

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.

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

The Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus with high contagion potential, capable of spreading from bats to humans and other animals. Infections caused by the Nipah virus are associated with a notable fatality rate.

Nipah virus outbreak: What safeguards parents need to know for protecting kids