A 14-year-old boy passed away on Sunday, a day after being diagnosed with the Nipah virus in Kerala, according to the state Health Minister.

On Saturday, Kerala's health department confirmed that the boy, from Malappuram district, tested positive for the Nipah virus.

Health Minister Veena George stated that the boy suffered a severe cardiac arrest at 10.50 am, and despite efforts to revive him, he could not be saved. "He was on ventilator support. His urine output had decreased this morning. Following a massive cardiac arrest, attempts to revive him failed, and he passed away at 11.30 am," George said.

The teenager's last rites will be conducted following medical protocols, the minister assured.

According to Kerala's Health Ministry, four individuals who tested positive for the Nipah virus are categorized as high-risk and are receiving treatment at Manjeri Medical College.

Currently, Pandikkad in Malappuram district is identified as the epicenter of the Nipah virus outbreak in Kerala.

In an advisory, Minister George urged residents in the epicenter locality and nearby hospitals to wear masks in public areas and refrain from visiting patients in hospitals. She also mentioned that the boy's funeral will be conducted in accordance with international protocols. "Decisions regarding the burial will be finalized after consultation with the district collector, the boy's parents, and family," George added.