Malappuram: A 42-year-old woman from Valanchery in Malappuram district has tested positive for the Nipah virus, Health Minister Veena George confirmed on Thursday.

The woman, who reportedly had limited social contact and rarely ventured outside her home, is currently undergoing treatment at a hospital in Perinthalmanna.

According to the minister, the patient had exhibited symptoms such as fever for over four days before she was diagnosed. Health officials had already suspected Nipah infection and provided necessary treatment in advance. The patient will now receive antibody therapy.

Minister George stated that efforts are underway to trace the source of infection, as no abnormal deaths have been reported in the district so far. "We are examining where the patient may have been exposed," she said. Seven individuals identified as high-risk contacts have tested negative for the virus.

As a precaution, movement restrictions have been imposed in a 3-kilometre radius around the second ward of Valanchery Municipality and parts of Marakkara and Edappal panchayats. The health department has also mandated mask usage across the district.

This marks the third confirmed case of Nipah in Malappuram district.

Nipah Helpline: 0483 2736 20, 2736376