After the death of a 24-year-old man at a private hospital in Malappuram, the district administration has implemented several restrictions to curb the spread of the Nipah virus. These measures include mandatory face masks in specific areas, particularly in Wards 4, 5, 6, and 7 of the Tiruvalli Gram Panchayat and Ward 7 of the Mampat Gram Panchayat.

Health officials have mandated face masks for anyone stepping out in the district and restricted public gatherings to minimise transmission risks. Businesses can operate only between 10 am and 7 pm, except for essential services like milk distribution, newspapers, and vegetable sales, which may begin at 6 am. Medical stores are exempt from these restrictions. Entertainment venues, including cinemas, must remain closed, and educational institutions like schools, colleges, madrasas, Anganwadis, and tuition centers have been instructed to suspend activities until further notice.

Nipah
Image Source: CIDRAP - University of Minnesota

WHO Classifies Nipah Virus as a Priority Pathogen Due to High Risk

However, schools and colleges in other parts of the district will stay open, but students, teachers, and staff are required to wear face masks. People in affected areas are advised to avoid gatherings and exercise caution at events such as weddings and funerals, maintaining social distance and limiting the number of attendees.

Health authorities have stressed the importance of not self-medicating if symptoms like fever appear and have urged people to consult registered medical practitioners for proper advice. They also recommend being cautious with food, especially avoiding fruits that may have been bitten by animals or fallen from trees, and thoroughly washing all fruits and vegetables before consumption. Individuals are advised to stay alert and report any signs of fever or other symptoms to health officials immediately.

The restrictions come in response to rising Nipah virus cases in Malappuram and the district’s second death this year. Kerala Health Minister Veena George noted that 175 people have been identified as contacts of the deceased, with 74 being healthcare workers. Among the 126 primary contacts, 104 are classified as high-risk. Currently, ten people from this list are receiving treatment at Manjeri Medical College Hospital, and 13 others are being tested with results pending.

Nipah virus antibodies have been identified in bats across several districts, including Kozhikode, Wayanad, Idukki, Malappuram, and Ernakulam. Fruit bats, as natural hosts, can transmit the virus to humans, leading to potential person-to-person spread.

The WHO has identified Nipah as a priority pathogen because of its epidemic potential and the lack of a vaccine or specialised treatment. This highlights the urgent need for increased vigilance and effective preventive measures.

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