As of Monday, the Kerala government has reported no new positive Nipah virus cases in the state since September 16. A total of 218 samples were collected from individuals identified as high-risk contacts, and all have tested negative for the virus thus far, according to State Health Minister Veena George.
Minister Veena George assured reporters that the situation remains under control, and in light of this positive development, the government has decided to ease restrictions in areas designated as containment zones on September 13.
Kerala Tourism Minister P A Mohamed Riyas, who joined the press briefing, announced that relaxations will soon be announced for the 58 containment wards in the district. However, the final decision on these measures will be made by the District Collector based on recommendations from an expert panel.
Regarding the transmission of the virus from bats to humans, Minister George explained that government surveys and the Indian Council of Medical Research's (ICMR) bat surveillance team have determined that Nipah is transmitted from these mammals through their saliva in the areas where they feed. Therefore, it is crucial for humans to avoid consuming fruits or vegetables that have been bitten by bats.
Minister George also noted that the state has conducted continuous community surveillance in coordination with various departments, including Animal Husbandry and Forest.
Regarding the four Nipah-infected patients, including a nine-year-old boy, their medical condition is reportedly stable.
The last confirmed Nipah virus case in the state was reported on September 15. As a precautionary measure, the government has decided to maintain containment and quarantine measures for 42 days from the date of the last positive case, taking into account the virus's 21-day incubation period. This extended period of caution is intended to prevent further spread of the virus.
In total, the state has confirmed six cases of Nipah infection, with two fatalities and four individuals currently undergoing treatment. Research from the World Health Organization (WHO) and ICMR indicates that the entire state, not just Kozhikode, is susceptible to such infections.
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