Kozhikode , 20 June (H.S.): Health authorities have discharged all individuals who had been admitted for observation after being identified as contacts of the Nipah patient in Kozhikode, even as intensive surveillance and monitoring measures continue across the district.

The three persons who had been under observation at Kozhikode Government Medical College Hospital completed the prescribed monitoring period and were discharged. Officials also said that all 14 individuals who developed symptoms while on the patient’s contact list tested negative for Nipah virus infection.

A healthcare worker under observation at a private hospital underwent sample collection for testing, and the results are awaited.

The condition of the Nipah patient undergoing treatment at Kozhikode Medical College Hospital remains critical. The patient continues to be on ventilator support and is receiving intensive care.

Officials said no new individuals were added to the contact list. The total number of people under surveillance remains at 104, including four classified as very high-risk contacts, 14 as high-risk contacts and 86 as low-risk contacts. Health workers continue daily follow-up and monitoring of all contacts.

As part of strengthened containment measures, surveillance activities were expanded in the affected area. Health teams visited an additional 56 households in Division 5 of Ramanattukara Municipality, where the Nipah case was reported, to monitor residents and spread awareness about preventive measures.

The district control room remains active in addressing public concerns related to the disease. So far, it has received 88 calls seeking information and clarification. Officials from the control room continue to stay in touch with all individuals on the contact list.

Mental health support is also being provided as part of the response. Under the District Mental Health Programme, officials have contacted 118 people and offered counselling and psychological support to help them cope with anxiety related to the outbreak.

Health authorities have urged the public to remain vigilant, follow precautionary guidelines and rely only on official information regarding the disease.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman