MALAPPURAM: Health authorities in Malappuram continue to enforce strict preventive measures following the confirmation of Mpox and Nipah cases in the district. Despite concerns, it is reassuring that recent samples sent for testing have returned negative results for both diseases.

Meanwhile, health officials are awaiting the genomic sequencing results for the Mpox virus that infected a 38-year-old man from Edavanna Chathallur, who recently returned from Dubai. The sequencing, being conducted at the Institute of Advanced Virology in Thiruvananthapuram, will determine the virus variant. The 2b variant, which is less virulent, is more commonly found outside Africa. However, the 1b variant prevalent in Africa is more contagious and poses a greater threat. Once the variant is identified, the health department plans to assess its transmission potential and take additional measures if needed.

The health department has also instructed 23 individuals who were in contact with the Mpox patient to undergo self-monitoring. There are reports that one of the six Malayalis living with the infected man in Dubai had developed a fever and displayed symptoms of Mpox. Health authorities believe the patient may have contracted the virus through this contact.

Kerala Health Minister Veena George provided a positive update, stating that the infected man's condition remains stable and satisfactory. Additionally, officials confirmed that 37 people have tested negative for Nipah so far.