KERALA, India, July 23: Indian health officials have issued an alert following the death of a 14-year-old boy from the Nipah virus in the southern state of Kerala. The boy succumbed to the virus at a hospital in Malappuram on Sunday morning, where he had been on a ventilator before suffering a fatal heart attack.

State Health Minister Veena George confirmed that the boy was in an unconscious state with critically low urine output and suffered a cardiac arrest around 10:50 a.m. despite medical efforts to save him. The National Institute of Virology in Pune later confirmed that the cause of death was Nipah virus infection.

Nipah, a zoonotic virus transmitted from animals like pigs and fruit bats, causes severe brain inflammation and fever. It was first identified 25 years ago in Malaysia and has since caused outbreaks in Bangladesh, India, and Singapore. The virus is classified as a “priority pathogen” by the World Health Organization due to its epidemic potential, and currently, there is no vaccine or cure available.

Since its emergence in Kerala in 2018, Nipah has been linked to multiple fatalities in the state. The symptoms of the virus include intense fever, vomiting, respiratory issues, and in severe cases, brain inflammation leading to seizures and coma.

In response to the recent case, Kerala authorities have implemented a comprehensive strategy to manage the outbreak. The state government has formed 25 committees dedicated to identifying and isolating affected individuals. Contact tracing is underway, with high-risk contacts isolated and their samples sent for testing. Currently, at least three individuals are isolated at the Kozhikode Government Medical College Hospital, and four at the Manjeri Government Medical College Hospital, including one in intensive care.

The health minister has assured the public that, while precautionary measures are in place, there is no need for widespread panic. A mobile testing lab from the National Institute of Virology is expected to arrive in Malappuram to support ongoing efforts.

Authorities have urged residents in the affected area to wear masks and avoid unnecessary hospital visits. They have also advised against consuming fruits that are half-eaten or have been in contact with animals, and cautioned against drinking beverages stored in open containers.

“The three-kilometer radius around the Pandikkad locality will be closely monitored, and restrictions will be imposed to prevent further spread,” Minister George stated.

Authorities continue to work closely with health experts to manage the situation and prevent additional cases.