ochi: A 14-year-old boy from Malappuram district of Kerala died due to Nipah virus while undergoing treatment at a hospital. The health department of Kerala had confirmed the diagnosis of Nipah virus infection in the teenager on Saturday. He was undergoing treatment for the infection, however, suffered a cardiac arrest on Sunday morning and doctors could not revive him.
Kerala Health Minister Veena George informed that the boy’s condition deteriorated early Sunday morning as his urine output reduced. He suffered a cardiac arrest at 10:50 AM and passed away despite resuscitation efforts. The last rites were performed following the medical protocol for infectious diseases.
The minister further said that three high-risk contacts of the deceased boy have been isolated at the Government Medical College in Kozhikode for monitoring. Their condition is reported to be stable. Health officials have been surveying the area and advisories have been issued to residents on precautions to avoid the spread of the virus.
Malappuram district has reported most Nipah cases in Kerala this year. The health department has declared it and nearby areas as high-risk and advised mask usage and avoiding public gatherings. People have also been suggested not to consume partially eaten fruits touched by animals or bats. The state government is formulating a special action plan to prevent any outbreak of the virus in the future.
