Nipah Virus Outbreak in Kerala Prompts School and Bank Closures

The southern state of Kerala in India has implemented measures to curb the spread of the rare and deadly Nipah virus, including the closure of schools, offices, and public transport. Two people have died from the virus, and authorities are focusing on tracing contacts and isolating individuals with symptoms. The virus is spread through direct contact with infected bats, pigs, or people. Strict isolation rules have been adopted, and medical staff are being quarantined after direct contact with infected individuals. Three federal teams, including experts from the National Virology Institute, are set to arrive for further testing. Kerala has experienced previous outbreaks of the Nipah virus in 2018, 2019, and 2021.