Kerala Successfully Contains Nipah Outbreak, Lifts Restrictions

The Kerala Health Department has announced that Nipah outbreak has been successfully contained in Malappuram district. After the completion of the 42-day double incubation period, restrictions imposed in the area where the outbreak was reported have been completely lifted, the state government said, adding that the special control room set up to monitor the situation has been wound up.

According to Health Minister Veena George, all 472 people who were placed under observation have been cleared and removed from the contact list.

The presence of the Nipah virus was detected in bat samples collected from Pandikkad in Kerala's Malappuram district, where the death of a 14-year-old boy due to the infection was reported on June 21.

What is Nipah Virus?

The Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic virus, meaning it passes from animals to humans. Fruit bats, sometimes known as flying foxes, are the primary vector of transmission, though pigs and other animals including goats, horses, dogs, or cats can also carry it.

How does it Spread?

Humans contract the virus primarily from animals. However, it can also transfer between individuals. Because of this, it's critical that caregivers use safety gear when tending to Nipah virus patients.