Malappuram: A woman, who was on the contact list of a Nipah virus patient, passed away here on Wednesday.

She was a native of Parappanangadi in Malappuram district. The woman had reportedly been in contact with the 18-year-old girl from Mankada, who recently died after contracting Nipah.

Although the woman showed no symptoms associated with Nipah, health officials have decided to send her samples for testing to rule out any link to the virus. She was undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Kottakkal.

As per the Nipah protocols, the health department has directed that her body should only be cremated after her test results are confirmed.

Health officials have advised the public to follow general safety measures to reduce the risk of infection. These include washing hands thoroughly with soap and water, especially after contact with animals or their waste; avoiding consumption of fruits or vegetables that have fallen to the ground or show signs of being bitten; and ensuring all produce is washed properly before eating.

Food and drinking water should be kept covered to prevent contamination. Officials also recommend covering the nose and mouth while coughing or sneezing, washing hands frequently, avoiding touching the face, and using personal protective measures when caring for anyone who is unwell.