Nipah virus in Malappuram: Mask must; restrictions in Anakkayam, Pandikkad panchayats

Malappuram district has implemented strict measures after a 15-year-old boy from Pandikkad near Manjeri tested positive for the deadly Nipah virus. The boy is currently receiving treatment at the Government Medical College Hospital in Kozhikode. As a precaution, authorities have closed all schools, colleges, madrasas, anganwadis, and tuition centres in these panchayats. They also advise people to avoid gatherings, including previously scheduled functions, and to limit social events such as marriages to a minimal number of guests.

District Collector V. R. Vinod announced restrictions for Pandikkad and Anakkayam panchayats. Although the boy resides in Pandikkad, he attends school in Anakkayam. As a precautio

Shops in Pandikkad and Anakkayam can operate only between 10 a.m. and 5 p.m., with an exemption for medical shops. Cinema theatres will remain closed until further notice.

Health Minister Veena George, overseeing the government’s response, emphasized the importance of wearing masks in public. Both students and teachers must wear masks at schools and colleges. The health authorities also recommended maintaining social distancing in public spaces. “People should avoid all types of functions, including weddings and other celebrations, until further orders,” advised District Medical Officer R. Renuka.

A total of 214 people who had contact with the infected boy are under surveillance, with 60 classified as high-risk. Their serum samples will be tested for Nipah. The authorities are preparing a comprehensive contact list and have arranged counseling for those in need. The Health Director is expected to visit Malappuram on July 21.

The patient’s route map, published on Saturday night, indicated his movements. On July 11, he traveled to Bright Tuition Centre in Pandikkad on a CPB Bus at 7:18 a.m. He visited Dr. Vijayan’s Clinic at 8:30 a.m. on July 12, the paediatric OP at PKM Hospital at 7:30 a.m. on July 13, the Emergency wing and OP at PKM Hospital at 8 p.m. on July 15, and the Emergency ICU of Moulana Hospital, Perinthalmanna, on the same day.

Minister Veena George urged anyone who was at these locations during the specified times to contact the control room immediately. Individuals exhibiting symptoms such as high fever, headache, cough, dizziness, myalgia, and vomiting should seek medical attention. Those with respiratory illness should exercise extreme caution.

The situation remains under close watch as health authorities work to contain the virus and prevent further spread.