One suspected Nipah virus case reported in Kozhikode; 14-year-old undergoing treatment

KOZHIKODE: In a concerning development, a patient undergoing treatment for fever in Malappuram is doubted to have contracted Nipah virus. A 14-year-old Malappuram Perinthalmanna native is undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Kozhikode with symptoms. The patient’s saliva samples will be sent to the Pune Institute of Virology today. It is reported that the current health condition of the patient is satisfactory.

The patient was admitted to a private hospital in Perinthalmanna on Friday but was soon shifted to a private hospital in Kozhikode after showing symptoms of Nipah. The initial test has been reportedly positive but a confirmation can only be reached after getting the results from Pune Institute of Virology.

It is reported that the Health Minister will call an emergency meeting soon. If there is confirmation of the virus, the health minister will go to Kozhikode to coordinate the activities.