Thiruvananthapuram: The Kerala government provided an update on the Nipah virus situation, reporting that there have been no new positive cases in the last 24 hours. State Health Minister Veena George shared the news during a press briefing, stating that test results for 42 samples from individuals in the high-risk contact list all came back negative. However, additional sample results are still pending and expected later today.
Minister George explained that according to guidelines and protocols, it is recommended to maintain caution for 42 days from the last positive case when asked about the duration of continued vigilance and caution despite the absence of new positive cases. This precautionary period accounts for the virus’s incubation period of 21 days.
To enhance contact tracing efforts, authorities are planning to enlist the help of the police. Some individuals who may have been near those infected have been uncooperative in providing information when contacted by phone. Therefore, mobile tower location data will fill gaps in contact tracing and ensure a more comprehensive approach to managing the situation.
The government remains committed to monitoring and controlling the spread of the Nipah virus, and the public is encouraged to stay vigilant and follow safety measures during this critical period.