KOLLAM: Health Minister K K Shailaja Sunday said a student who returned from China is suspected of being affected by coronavirus. She said there was no need to panic and that the government would overcome the challenges like it did with the nipah virus two years ago.

Preliminary examination of the medical student who returned from Wuhan on January 24 has been diagnosed with the virus. The final results from National Virology Institute is being awaited and is expected by this evening. The student is under treatment at the isolation ward in Alappuzha Medical College.

The minister said all coming from China will be under surveillance of the health department. She reiterated that those coming from foreign countries should abide the rules of the health department. The public is obliged to listen if an alert is cautioned.

People on home quarantine should not go out with informing health authorities. They should remain under surveillance for at least 28 days. Details must be voluntarily communicated to health authorities.

Nipah was most dangerous and still we contained it effectively. The state will overcome the present situation, she said. There was no need of any stigma over coronavirus because it is like any other contagious viral outbreak. She also underlined that the government would not lower its guard.

The minister also urged the union health ministry to ensure that tests for cornonavirus are carried out expeditiously and reports are made available quickly.

The virus spreads even before showing symptoms and so those under surveillance should not go out without completing the incubation period. Should not get in touch. People should be willing to postpone functions like marriage ceremonies.

Preventive work led by the health department is strong. If we are careful, we can prevent the disease, she said.