In Kerala, the Malappuram District authorities have declared containment zones in some wards in Valancherry and neighbouring panchayats, after a 42-year old woman was tested positive for Nipah virus.

The decision follows an emergency meeting convened by State Health Minister Veena George in Malappuram last evening. Besides four wards in Valancherry Municipality, a few wards in Marakkara, Edayoor and Athavanad gram panchayats have also been declared as containment zones.

The authorities have urged public to avoid crowding, visiting people admitted in hospitals, eating fruits bitten by birds or animals and to wear masks. They said, aganwadis and madarasas are not allowed to function and restrictions will remain in force till further notice.