Malappuram: Following the first Nipah death in Kerala this year, Health Minister Veena George has announced stricter preventive measures. In a recent press briefing here on Sunday morning, the minister provided updates on the situation.

Currently, 246 persons are on the contact list, with 63 classified as high-risk. Among them, one person has been diagnosed with viral fever, and two others in the high-risk category are displaying symptoms of Nipah. Samples from four have been sent for testing. The minister stated that priority will be given to taking samples from all persons in the high-risk category, especially those showing symptoms. Samples will be collected from those who are asymptomatic after this.

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The testing process is facilitated at Kozhikode Medical College's lab, supplemented by a mobile lab which has been dispatched from NIV Pune. House-to-house surveys are also underway, involving health department officials, local body representatives, health workers, and other departments.

District-level meetings with panchayat representatives are scheduled for Sunday to streamline response efforts. Yesterday, similar discussions were held under the guidance of medical officers in respective panchayats. Families under total isolation are being supported with volunteers assigned to procure essential supplies such as food and medication.

Today's meeting will also address logistical needs and ensure provisions for domestic animals and pets. District authorities have issued guidelines pertaining to educational institutions and crowd management, which are being enforced with the assistance of the District Collector and local police.

Minister Veena George has also confirmed the initiation of patrolling operations by the District Police Chief in the affected areas to maintain public safety and order.