The Kerala Health Department has issued an alert in Kozhikode district after two ‘unnatural’ deaths were reported due to fever at a private hospital on September 11.
The two deaths are suspected to be due to Nipah Virus and the relatives of one of the deceased are in the ICU, stated the health department.
Earlier in 2018, there was a Nipah outbreak in the Kozhikode and Malappuram districts and later in 2021 also, a case of Nipah was reported in Kozhikode.
According to the World Health Organisation (WHO), Nipah Virus is caused by fruit bats and is potentially fatal to humans as well as animals. Along with respiratory illness, it is also known to cause fever, muscular pain, headache, fever, dizziness, and nausea.
Kerala Health Minister Veena George has convened a high-level meeting on September 12 after two “unnatural deaths” were reported. The body of the deceased person has been kept in the mortuary and cremation will be done once the results are obtained, Minister Veena George told reporters in Kozhikode.
“The health department has started surveillance and sent samples to the National Institute of Virology. Another death was also reported and both the deceased persons were in contact,” Veena George said.
The first death took place on August 30 and the second death on September 11.
“All health systems in the district are on alert. Orders have been issued to isolate the close contacts of the deceased persons. Result will reach by today evening and Nipah virus infection can be confirmed after that only,” health officials said.
The Health Minister has directed local health workers to keep a close vigil in their areas.
“If the results are positive, action will be taken according to the State Nipah protocols. A comprehensive assessment will be done,” the Health Minister added.
As a precautionary measure, the Health Ministry has also directed to arrange an isolation facility in Kozhikode Medical College.
“The samples of the two deceased and other three people, undergoing treatment have been sent to Pune for testing,” the State Health Minister said.
(with inputs from ANI)
