Nipah Virus issue: Kerala CM to chair high-level meeting tomorrow

The Chief Minister will review the preparations taken to control the spread of deadly virus Nipah which took the lives of 17 people in Kerala in 2018.

Meanwhile, the Ernakulam District Collector announced that schools will be reopened on June six itself after the two-month summer vacation. There were reports that the school reopening may postpone due to Nipah fear.

Earlier, the Chief Minister requested people to follow the instructions of the Health department in the wake of a confirmed case of Nipha infection in the State.

He said Nipah infection has been confirmed in one person who is undergoing treatment for fever in Kochi.

"The news of confirmation should not be a reason for panic. Our health network is ready to rise up to the challenge. Under the supervision of the Health Minister, all necessary preparations have been done," he added.

"We could also identify those who came into contact with Nipah patient and they have been kept under observation," he said.

Reacting to social media spreading panic, the Chief Minister said stringent action will be taken against those who spread misinformation.

"We are in constant contact with the Union Ministry of Health. A team of experts had arrived in Kochi. Together, we overcame the battle against Nipah in 2018. In this time also we should stand together to contain the disease," he added.