Key Facts
A central team from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) arrived in Kozhikode on Saturday (June 13, 2026) to assess the Nipah virus situation. The infection was confirmed on Thursday when lab results from the National Institute of Virology, Pune, tested positive for a 43-year-old man from Ramanattukara. He remains critical on ventilator support. The first dose of monoclonal antibody was given on Friday.
Details of Contacts and Containment
Revenue Minister A.P. Anil Kumar, in-charge of Kozhikode, stated that from the current scenario, it could be presumed that there had not been any large-scale spread of the infection. He ruled out declaring a containment zone. The contact list includes 87 persons: 11 from Malappuram, one from Kannur, and the rest from Kozhikode. Around 300 houses in the patient's area have been covered by health workers.
Central Team's Visit
The ICMR team visited Government Medical College Hospital and held a review meeting at the Kozhikode district collectorate with health officials. They are expected to visit Ramanattukara and stay for a couple of days. Officials from the National Centre for Disease Control will also join soon.
Political Reactions
Minister Anil Kumar claimed there were no lapses in containment steps, contrary to allegations by CPI(M) leaders. Leader of Opposition Pinarayi Vijayan, Beypore MLA P.A. Mohamed Riyas, and CPI(M) district secretary M. Mehboob accused the government of lethargy. Mr. Riyas staged a protest outside the Nipah control room on Saturday.
What Readers Should Know
- The highest risk contacts have tested negative for the virus.
- The health system is fully prepared, according to the minister.
- No containment zone has been declared.
FAQ
How many people are in the contact list of the Nipah-infected patient?
The contact list includes 87 persons: 11 from Malappuram, 1 from Kannur, and the rest from Kozhikode.
Has a containment zone been declared in Kozhikode?
No, the district in-charge minister said there is no need for a containment zone as there is no evidence of large-scale spread.
What is the condition of the Nipah-infected patient?
The 43-year-old man from Ramanattukara is in critical condition on ventilator support at Government Medical College Hospital, Kozhikode.
What steps have been taken by health authorities?
Health workers have reached out to all residents in the area (around 300 houses). The first dose of monoclonal antibody was administered on June 12.