Kerala Boy Dies of Nipah, State Takes Action

A 14-year-old boy from Kerala's Malappuram district has died from the Nipah virus, prompting state and national health authorities to issue alerts and ramp up preventive measures. Kerala Health Minister Veena George confirmed the death and stated that contact tracing and isolation protocols are in place for over 200 individuals, including 60 in high-risk categories. The state has initiated strict quarantine measures, closed schools and public gatherings, and deployed medical teams at border check-posts. The virus, transmitted from animals like bats and pigs to humans, has caused several outbreaks in Kerala since 2018. The Indian Council of Medical Research has sent monoclonal antibodies and a mobile laboratory to aid in testing and treatment. Authorities emphasize the importance of wearing masks, avoiding contact with potentially contaminated food, and maintaining social distancing to curb the spread.