Second Suspected Nipah Death In Kerala Triggers High Alert In Six Districts

Kerala has reported a second suspected death from the Nipah virus, prompting the state health department to issue an alert across six districts and intensify surveillance measures. A 57-year-old man from Palakkad district, who had been receiving treatment at a private hospital, tested positive for the virus at Manjeri Medical College, according to Health Minister Veena George.

While final confirmation is awaited from the National Institute of Virology (NIV) in Pune, this is the second suspected Nipah-related fatality in the state this month. The first was reported in Malappuram, and another patient from Palakkad remains under treatment.

State Steps Up Surveillance & Contact Tracing

In response, the government has ramped up contact tracing and field surveillance. Authorities have identified 46 individuals who were in contact with the deceased. Investigators used CCTV footage and mobile tower data to map the patient’s movements, and a detailed route map and family contact tree have been compiled.

Fever surveillance has been launched in affected areas to detect possible new infections at an early stage.

Precautionary Measures Urged In Hospitals

Minister George advised the public to avoid unnecessary hospital visits, especially in Palakkad and Malappuram. Hospitals have been instructed to restrict patient visitors, allowing only one bystander per patient. All healthcare workers, patients, and visitors must wear masks at all times inside medical facilities.

“Field teams have been reinforced, and all available data is being analysed to contain the situation,” the health minister said, adding that further actions will depend on confirmation from NIV Pune.

Six Districts Under Nipah Alert

Hospitals in Palakkad, Malappuram, Kozhikode, Kannur, Wayanad, and Thrissur have been placed on high alert. Health officials have directed all medical institutions to report any patients exhibiting symptoms such as high fever, encephalitis, or other signs consistent with Nipah virus infection.

As of now, 543 individuals are on the contact tracing list, including the 46 linked to the most recent suspected case.

What Is Nipah Virus?

According to the World Health Organization (WHO), the Nipah virus is a zoonotic pathogen transmitted from animals to humans, often through contaminated food or direct contact with infected individuals. The virus can cause severe illness, including encephalitis, and has a high mortality rate. There is currently no known cure or vaccine.

Health authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, urging the public to remain vigilant and follow official advisories.