TN on High Alert After Nipah Virus Cases in Kerala; Medical Teams Deployed Across Borders
Chennai — In the wake of confirmed Nipah virus infections in Kerala’s Palakkad and Malappuram districts, Tamil Nadu has stepped up preventive measures, placing health departments across the state on high alert and deploying medical teams along border districts.
In an official release on Saturday, the Tamil Nadu Directorate of Public Health and Preventive Medicine confirmed that no Nipah virus cases have been detected in the state so far, and urged the public to remain calm yet cautious. Authorities assured that all necessary protocols are being strictly enforced to prevent any possible spread from neighbouring Kerala.
Border Surveillance and Emergency Measures
Special medical response teams have been stationed across border districts, especially in Coimbatore, Nilgiris, and Kanyakumari, to screen individuals for symptoms and respond immediately to any suspected cases. Thermal screening checkpoints and awareness camps have also been set up in vulnerable areas.
“There is no need to panic. Tamil Nadu is well-prepared, and our teams are closely monitoring the situation in coordination with Kerala health authorities,” the statement from the Directorate read.
Symptoms and Public Health Advisory
The public has been urged to be vigilant for symptoms associated with the Nipah virus, which include:
- Fever
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Disorientation or confusion
- Seizures
- Difficulty breathing
- Loss of consciousness
Anyone showing these signs, especially those who have travelled to the affected areas in Kerala or have been in contact with sick individuals, is advised to seek immediate medical care at the nearest government hospital.
Hygiene Guidelines and Preventive Advice
In a bid to curb transmission risks, residents have been issued the following public health guidelines:
- Avoid consuming fallen or unwashed fruits, particularly those bitten by birds or bats.
- Wash fruits thoroughly before eating.
- Refrain from visiting bat-infested orchards or areas with heavy fruit bat activity.
- Maintain hand hygiene — wash hands frequently with soap and water.
- Avoid contact with sick individuals and animals, especially pigs and bats.
The Nipah virus (NiV) is a zoonotic pathogen, which means it spreads from animals to humans. Fruit bats are known to be the primary carriers, and transmission can occur through contaminated fruit, infected animal fluids, or person-to-person contact.
Official Stand and Appeal to Citizens
District health officials have been instructed to ensure rigorous monitoring, rapid response protocols, and effective public communication. The Tamil Nadu Health Department has also appealed to citizens not to circulate unverified information or rumours, and to rely solely on official bulletins for accurate updates.
“We are committed to the safety of every citizen,” said a senior health officer. “Our vigilance and preparedness will help us keep Tamil Nadu safe from this outbreak.”
The Directorate reiterated that it continues to maintain close coordination with central health agencies and Kerala’s public health department to monitor any escalation.