Wed Sep 18 15:12:57 UTC 2024: ## Nipah Virus Fears Ease in Malappuram as More Tests Come Back Negative

**MALAPPURAM, INDIA – September 18, 2024** – Ten more individuals in Malappuram district have tested negative for the Nipah virus, bringing the total number of negative tests to 26, according to Kerala Health Minister Veena George. The latest negative results included close relatives of the 24-year-old man who died from Nipah and the doctor who treated him.

However, the situation remains under close watch as eleven new individuals have been added to the contact list of the Nipah victim. Five of these individuals are considered high risk.

Top health officials reviewed the situation on Wednesday evening, confirming that 81 healthcare workers are among the 266 people currently on the contact list.

Two patients with symptoms were admitted to the Government Medical College Hospital in Manjeri on Wednesday, bringing the total number of patients being treated at the hospital to six. MES Medical College Hospital in Perinthalmanna is currently treating 21 patients.

Field surveys were conducted in Mampad, Tiruvali, and Wandoor panchayats, covering 1,044 homes. Health workers have reached out to 7,953 homes since the Nipah case was confirmed on September 9.

A total of 19 fever cases were reported on Wednesday, adding to the 175 fever cases reported over the past three days.

Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and urge the public to remain vigilant.

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