16 of 50 Samples Collected Tested Nipah Negative: Veena George

The Kerala Government said that 16 individuals, who were in close contact with a 24-year-old man died of the Nipah virus, and tested negative. The samples were tested at the Manjeri Government Medical College.

The man who died due to the virus on September 9 was a native of Malappuram district.

A total of 225 people have come in contact with the deceased. Of these, 50 people were categorised as high-risk.

The details regarding the same were announced by Kerala Health Minister Veena George during a press conference. She further said that there is no need to worry as they have put in proper containment measures in the palace to curb the infection.

The Minister added that more samples would be collected in the coming days and they will treat those exposed to the virus.

Moreover, the Kerala government has also coordinated with the Karnataka government, where the deceased man was studying. Also, the Kerala government is in contact with the central government.

In Malappuram district, five wards in two panchayats were declared containment zones and concerned authorities have imposed restrictions in these areas.

Schools, theatres, and other businesses have been closed in these areas after 7 pm. Authorities also have urged residents to wear masks to curb the spread of infection.

Similarly, partial restrictions have also been imposed across other parts of Malappuram.