Pune Virology Institute to investigate Nipah origins, sets bat traps in Kozhikode

A team of experts from the Pune Virology Institute along with Forest Department officials have set traps to catch bats in Kozhikode in order to investigate the origins of Nipah.

Kozhikode (Kerala): In a bid to investigate the origin of the Nipah virus, a team of experts from the Pune Virology Institute along with Forest Department officials, set traps to catch bats in Kozhikode. The team set up a net to catch bats at Kuttiyottuparambu in Kodiyathoor panchayath.

Meanwhile, the state is breathing a sigh of relief after people in close contact with a 12-year-old infected child tested negative for the virus. So far, 88 people, who had been in contact with the child who was infected with Nipah, have tested negative. However, two more test results sent to The National Institute of Virology in Pune are yet to arrive.

It is also a solace to the state, that surveys conducted in households of Chathamangalam did not report any unusual deaths so far. Yet, Chathamangalam and its surroundings are extremely vigilant.

The health department officials also gave instructions about preventing gatherings at public places amid Covid-19 and Nipah.