Many people infected with dengue in Malappuram and Kozhikode are worried thinking they are infected by Nipah. Samples of 60 people showing symptoms of the infection have been sent to Pune for testing.

Meanwhile, the Central team said bats in the vulnerable area from where the virus was first reported have not shown any signs of contracting the infection. The team has not been able to zero in on bats as the cause for spreading the virus, Forest Minister K Raju said.

A helpline 04712732151 is working round-the-clock to help people collect and disseminate information pertaining to the infection.