In Kerala, samples of three persons were confirmed positive for the Nipah virus by the National Institute of Virology, Pune. State Health Minister Veena George told media persons in Kozhikode that two persons who are undergoing treatment in Kozhikode have tested positive for the virus, besides a 40 year old man who died yesterday. One of the persons found positive is a 9 year old boy, who is in a critical condition and is on life support.

The Minister said it is inferred that another person who died last month due to comorbid conditions and whose sample was not taken, was also positive. Those undergoing treatment are his close relatives. She said three central teams including a mobile team of the NIV,  will be reaching the state tomorrow. The State Animal Husbandry and Forest Departments will carry out a bat habit survey. She appealed to the public not to panic.

Veena George said a Control Room has been opened at the Kozhikode Guest House.  Control Room Numbers are  0495-2384101, 2383100, 2383101, 2386100.
Earlier in the day, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya said that a central team of experts had been sent to Kerala to take stock of the situation and assist the State government in the management of the virus infection.