Fri Jul 04 15:55:26 UTC 2025: **Summary:**
A Nipah outbreak has occurred in Kerala, India. As of July 4, 2025, 345 people are on the contact list, primarily in Malappuram, Palakkad, and Kozhikode. Two individuals, one each from Palakkad and Malappuram, have tested positive for the virus. Control measures, including contact tracing, containment zones, and increased vigilance, are underway in the affected districts. The health department is investigating the source of the infection, focusing on events from the past three weeks, including deaths from pneumonia or encephalitis. Public is advised to not disturb the bats by busting crackers or any other means.
**News Article:**
**Nipah Outbreak Sparks Alert in Kerala, India**
*Thiruvananthapuram, July 4, 2025* – A Nipah virus outbreak has prompted a high alert across the districts of Malappuram, Palakkad, and Kozhikode in Kerala, India. Health Minister Veena George announced that 345 individuals are currently on the contact list, with the majority residing in Malappuram (211) and Palakkad (91). Kozhikode has 43 individuals on the list, including healthcare workers.
Two confirmed cases have been reported, one each in Palakkad and Malappuram. The Palakkad case was initially suspected based on local testing and later confirmed by the National Institute of Virology in Pune.
The Health Department has initiated stringent control measures, including robust contact tracing, especially around hospitals and healthcare institutions. Containment zones have been declared in Palakkad and Malappuram, with mandatory mask-wearing in public places.
Officials are investigating the origin of the outbreak, focusing on potential cases of pneumonia or encephalitis in the affected areas during the three weeks preceding the onset of symptoms in the confirmed cases (June 25th and 26th).
“We are taking all necessary precautions to contain the spread of the virus,” stated Minister George. “We are urging the public to cooperate with health officials and to follow all safety guidelines.”
Authorities are also urging the public not to disturb bats through actions like lighting crackers.
State and district control rooms have been established, and 26 committees per district are working to manage the situation. Police are assisting in contact tracing efforts.
The Additional Chief Secretary (Health), NHM State Mission Director, Director of Health Services, Director of Medical Education, District Collectors, and police officials are actively involved in the containment and management efforts.
First Piper 