Research Projects

A viral diagnostic laboratory with Grade I facilities was established at the National Institute of Virology-Kerala unit. Investigated more than 10 major outbreaks in Kerala and found out the etiology within 48 hours of an outbreak. First time in Kerala, West Nile encephalitis was documented. Dengue serotype 1 genotype 3 was identified and documented its involvement in dengue related deaths. We have isolated many viruses from the clinical samples and the important isolates are West Nile virus, entero virus, RSV A and B, Adenovirus serotype 4 and 2, Chikungunya, Dengue serotype 1,2 and 3, Rotavirus etc. First time in Kerala the Kyasanur Forest Disease outbreak in the Nilampur forest area has been reported. Several PCR, tissue culture and entomology trainings were organized and many MD students from different medical colleges were trained. Awareness lectures were delivered at different medical colleges in and around Kerala. Eight manuscripts were published in national and international peer reviewed journals.