In response to the increasing cases of the Nipah virus, the Kerala government has implemented additional restrictions within the containment zones in Kozhikode district. Furthermore, the district administration has canceled Friday prayers at the Kuttiady Juma Masjid in Kozhikode.
Zubair P, the Secretary of the Kuttiady Juma Masjid Mahallu Committee, stated, “Due to the outbreak of the Nipah virus in our area, the district collector and police authorities have told us not to gather people at mosque. In compliance with these orders, we have decided to close the mosque until further notice. Friday prayers will not be conducted at the mosque today. We are fully cooperating with the government authorities to control the spread of this disease…”
This action follows the confirmation of one more case of the Nipah virus earlier in the day, affecting a 39-year-old man in Kozhikode. This brings the total number of active cases of this brain-damaging virus in the state to four. Consequently, the overall tally of Nipah virus infections in Kerala now stands at six, including two fatalities.
The 39-year-old patient is currently under observation in a hospital in Kozhikode, according to the state health minister’s office.
Restrictions Implemented in Containment Zones:
Meanwhile, the state government has reinforced measures to prevent the spread of the infection.
Kerala has temporarily shuttered several schools and offices this week to contain the deadly Nipah virus.
Gram panchayats in the Kozhikode area that have been affected have been designated as quarantine zones.
Samples from 15 individuals in the high-risk category on the contact list have been sent for testing.
Large gatherings or public events of any kind, including those at places of worship, are prohibited in the containment zones.
As well government employees have been instructed to work from home.
Public parks and beaches within the containment zones will remain closed until further notice.
Residents have been advised against organizing events and functions in the district.
Visitors are not permitted to visit patients in hospitals, with only one person allowed to accompany the patient.
Individuals attending places of worship are urged to exercise self-restraint.
