New Delhi/IBNS: Two people have died due to the Nipah virus in Kerala's Kozhikode district, Union Health Minister Mansukh Mandaviya confirmed on Tuesday.

The confirmation comes hours after a district-wide health alert was issued on Monday after two "unnatural" deaths were reported from a private hospital.

"A central team sent to Kerala to take stock of the situation and assist the state government in Nipah virus management," Mandaviya said.

The Kerala government has set up a control room in Kozhikode and advised people to use masks as a precautionary measure.

Earlier in the day, Kerala Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan advised people to exercise caution and said there was no reason to worry as those who were in close contact with the victims were under treatment.

"There is nothing to worry about. Those who were in contact with the two are being traced and treated. Being careful is the key to tackling the situation. Everyone is requested to cooperate with the action plan prepared by the health department," the Chief Minister said.