Nipah scare: Educational institutions to remain closed indefinitely; visitors banned from medical college – KERALA – GENERAL

MALAPPURAM: Strict restrictions have been imposed in Pandikkad panchayat in Malappuram, where Nipah has been confirmed, with a maximum of 50 people being allowed for functions including weddings and receptions.

It has also been decided to close all educational institutions in the area for a certain period. All people are advised to wear masks. Health Minister Veena George on Friday asked people to put aside their fear and be vigilant.

A ban on visits has also been imposed at Kozhikode Medical College, where a child with Nipah is being treated. The child is reportedly in critical condition and is currently being assisted by ventilators. A special team of 30 medical personnel is responsible for the treatment.

Another child who is a close friend of the Nipah patient is now running a fever. The child’s blood sample has been sent for testing. The doctors and nurses of the hospitals where the Nipah patient sought treatment earlier have been quarantined. A sample of 60 direct contacts is being sent for testing. They fall into the high-risk category. 214 people are under observation, while those on the contact list are being quarantined.

The Nipah scare is back for the fifth time in Kerala. 17 people, including nurse Lini Puthussery, died in the first outbreak of the virus in 2018. One died in 2021 and two died in 2023. In June 2019, an engineering student in Ernakulam contracted the disease but survived.

A 24-hour monitoring cell has been started at Malappuram PWD Rest House. The control room numbers are 0483-2732010, 0483-2732050, 0483-2732060 and 0483-2732090.