Malappuram woman remains critical after testing positive for Nipah, 49 contacts identified

A woman from Valanchery, Malappuram, Kerala is in critical condition due to the Nipah virus. 49 contacts are under observation, with six showing symptoms. 

Malappuram: A woman from Valanchery in Malappuram, who tested positive for the Nipah virus, remains in critical condition at Perinthalmanna Hospital, according to Health Minister Veena George. The Health Department has released the patient's route map and placed 49 individuals on the contact list, of whom 45 are considered high-risk. Six of them have developed symptoms of the virus.

The patient initially sought treatment for high fever at a private clinic in Valanchery on April 25. As her condition worsened with continued fever and shortness of breath, she was shifted to Perinthalmanna Hospital on May 1. On observing symptoms consistent with Nipah, her serum sample was sent to the Pune Virology Institute, where it tested positive.

Close family members, including her husband and children, are under medical observation. A 3-kilometer containment zone has been declared around the affected area. The Health Department has also confirmed that there have been no unnatural deaths reported in the vicinity.

Seven individuals, including the woman’s close relatives, initially tested negative for the virus. However, all have been placed under a 21-day quarantine as a precaution. Movement restrictions have been implemented in Valanchery Municipality, Marakkara, and Edayoor Panchayats.

To trace the source of the infection, the Health Department will conduct a detailed investigation. In response to the discovery of a dead cat in the area, the Animal Husbandry Department will collect samples for expert analysis. Fever surveillance and health monitoring will be carried out across the affected regions.

A general alert has been issued in Malappuram district, and the public is advised to remain cautious, wear masks, use hand sanitizers, and report any symptoms immediately.