Nipah Virus Cases Rise to Four in Kerala; Vigilance at Border Checkposts Heightened

Kerala has reported a total of four Nipah virus cases, with a 39-year-old man testing positive in Kozhikode. The state is maintaining extra vigilance at its border checkposts, particularly those bordering Tamil Nadu and Karnataka. All four cases have emerged in Kozhikode, with the latest patient being a direct contact of the first positive Nipah case, who passed away on August 30.

Health Minister Veena George announced that testing for all high-risk contacts has been initiated, including the deployment of a mobile testing center. Currently, two deaths have been recorded among patients who tested positive. A central team is visiting the affected villages, and fever symptom checks are being conducted on all vehicles passing through border checkposts.

Additionally, schools in Kozhikode district have shifted to online mode until Saturday, and a dedicated ward has been established at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital.