According to WHO, population-based seroprevalence surveys are conducted to predict the proportion of infection and immunity in order to comprehend disease burden, a pattern of transmission, and associated risk factors.

The Chief Minister said that the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is not providing a clear answer to why the virus outbreak repeatedly happens in Kozhikode.

“So the state has decided to conduct a sero survey. Have asked the health department to prepare a detailed proposal for this,” CM Vijayan said in a media briefing in Thiruvananthapuram.

He further said that the state government is taking all measures to prevent the spread and ensure better treatment for those infected.

“It cannot be said that the Nipah threat has gone away. It is a relief that the disease has not spread to more people. The government is going ahead with effective measures to prevent the spread and ensure better treatment for those infected. The entire health system of the state is involved in this initiative with utmost caution,” he said.

The CM also added that scientific precautions have been taken to prevent the spread of Nipah in Kozhikode as well as neighbouring Kannur, Wayanad, and Malappuram districts.

“A more dangerous situation was avoided because it was detected early. As soon as the abnormal fever was noticed, the government intervened and coordinated preventive measures,” the CM said.

He said that a Nipah action plan was drawn up and a Nipah Core Committee comprising 19 teams was formed.

“Nipah control room is set up in government guest house, Kozhikode. A call centre was opened and linked to the 'Disha' service of the Health Department,” he added.