Thiruvananthapuram: Following a recent Nipah confirmation in Kozhikode, another individual with Nipah virus symptoms is now receiving medical attention at Thiruvananthapuram Medical College Hospital. The patient, identified as a BDS student, is currently under observation. Hospital authorities swiftly initiated tests on the student’s body fluids, though they have reassured the public that there is currently no significant cause for alarm.
Meanwhile, in Kozhikode, health authorities have issued stringent guidelines for the public in response to the re-emergence of Nipah cases. Seven individuals are presently undergoing treatment for symptoms associated with Nipah virus infection. This development has triggered a heightened state of vigilance not only in Kozhikode district but also in neighbouring areas.
Within Kozhikode district, two fatalities and two individuals who had close contact with the deceased have tested positive for Nipah. Among those affected, a nine-year-old boy remains in critical condition. In light of these cases, a total of 168 people, including 127 healthcare workers, have been identified for potential exposure and are now part of the contact tracing efforts.
As a preventive measure, authorities have mandated the use of masks within Kozhikode district following the confirmation of Nipah cases. Additionally, 108 ambulance services have been deployed to transport individuals exhibiting symptoms to medical facilities. It should be noted that no official decision has been made regarding covering the expenses of those receiving treatment in private hospitals or implementing area-wide lockdowns in Nipah-affected zones.
The ongoing contact tracing efforts will be expanded by analyzing CCTV footage for potential exposure. Minister Veena George has stated that if the results of those under observation are positive, a route map will be released to the public. A central team, accompanied by expert teams from the NIV Mobile Laboratory in Pune and the ICMR, is set to inspect bat habitats today.
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