Thu Jul 17 19:00:17 UTC 2025: ## News Article: Nipah Outbreak Prompts Mask Mandate and Restrictions in Kerala

**PALAKKAD, INDIA – July 18, 2025** – Following the detection of three consecutive Nipah virus cases in Mannarkkad taluk, Palakkad district, Kerala, authorities have mandated mask usage and implemented work-from-home policies to contain the outbreak. District Collector G. Priyanka has authorized work-from-home for government employees residing within designated containment zones, with potential leave options being considered for those unable to work remotely.

Schools and colleges within containment zones will transition to online classes, and students from these areas attending institutions elsewhere will also be required to participate in online learning.

Health Minister Veena George reported that 674 individuals are currently under observation across Kerala, with the majority concentrated in Palakkad (426), followed by Malappuram (131), Kozhikode (115), and single cases in Ernakulam and Thrissur districts. Currently, 12 individuals in Malappuram and 17 in Palakkad are receiving treatment while quarantined.

Minister George emphasized that 32 individuals under observation are classified as being in the highest risk category, and 111 are considered high risk. She has also directed meticulous documentation of all activities at the One Health Centre for Nipah Research in Kozhikode. A team of experts from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) conducted an assessment in Malappuram on Thursday.

The Kerala government is taking swift action to contain the spread of the Nipah virus, prioritizing public health and safety through these measures.

—

**Summary of Provided Text:**

The text consists of snippets of information from The Hindu newspaper, highlighting different sections like news analysis (“The View From India”), cinema reviews (“First Day First Show”), technology news (“Today’s Cache”), science (“Science For All”), data analysis (“Data Point”), health (“Health Matters”), and book reviews (“The Hindu On Books”). The main body of the text is a news report about a Nipah virus outbreak in Palakkad district, Kerala, India. The government has mandated mask usage, work-from-home, and online classes in affected areas. Hundreds of people are under observation, and measures are being taken to monitor and research the outbreak.

Read More