Determined to prevent the spread of the Nipah virus, the Kerala government has taken swift action upon confirming four cases of infection in Kozhikode.

According to the Union Health Ministry, there have been two confirmed deaths related to the infection. One occurred on 30 August, while the other took place on Monday.

Kerala Health Minister Veena George has emphasised the importance of proactive detection in the state's approach.

By closely monitoring clinical symptoms, the health administration aims to identify potential cases before they are officially confirmed in laboratories.

By identifying and isolating potential carriers of the virus, the government aims to prevent further transmission and contain the outbreak.

The Nipah virus is a zoonotic virus that can be transmitted from animals to humans, and subsequently between humans. Fruit bats, commonly known as flying foxes, serve as hosts for this virus.

Nipah infection can lead to a range of health issues, from respiratory problems to fatal encephalitis, which is the inflammation of the brain.

Common symptoms include fever, headache, cough, difficulty breathing, and vomiting. As the infection progresses, patients may experience disorientation, seizures, and even slip into a coma.

It is crucial to recognise these symptoms and seek immediate medical attention for early diagnosis and treatment.

Responding to a question in the state assembly today, the Health Minister announced that seven village panchayats in Kozhikode district, namely Atanchery, Maruthonkara, Tiruvallur, Kuttiyadi, Kayakkodi, Villyapalli, and Kavilumpara, have been designated as containment zones.

In order to safeguard children from contracting the virus, Education Minister V Sivankutty has instructed schools to conduct online exams.

Today, teams from the National Institute of Virology are scheduled to arrive in the state to conduct a survey.

Additionally, a group of epidemiologists from Chennai is also en route to Kerala.

During the assembly session, George revealed that the virus strain identified in Kerala is the Bangladesh variant, which is transmitted from human to human and has a high mortality rate.

Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan has urged the public to remain calm and take necessary precautions. He emphasised the importance of strictly adhering to the instructions provided by the health department and the police.