Monkey Fever Outbreak: Karnataka Issues Warning After 53 Cases, 2 Deaths
A total of 53 cases of Kyasanur forest disease, also known as monkey fever, have been reported in Karnataka since January 1. Two deaths were reported due to monkey fever. In the wake of the outbreak of the disease, Karnataka’s health department issued an advisory. There are currently 20 active cases. One death was reported in the last 24 hours.
The government urged the people to enter forest areas with proper clothing. The health department also advised people to take a hot water bath after coming back from the forests. Notably, most of the infections have been reported from the Uttara Kannada district of the state.
Monkey fever is a viral disease, that spreads through tick bites, mostly in forest areas.
What is Kyasanur forest disease?
Kyasanur forest disease (KFD) is a re-emerging zoonotic disease. It is caused by Kyasanur Forest disease virus (KFDV), a member of the virus family Flaviviridae. The first case of monkey fever was reported in 1957 from the Kyasanur forest area, Shimoga district of Karnataka. The disease can be transmitted to humans by the bite of infected ticks or via contact with a sick or recently dead monkey.
Symptoms of the disease:
After an incubation period of three to eight days, a patient suffers chills, frontal headache, and fever. Other symptoms include severe muscle pain with vomiting and diarrhoea, mental disturbances, etc. According to the CDC, patients may also experience abnormally low blood pressure, low platelet, red blood cell, and white blood cell counts.
Current Situation:
- Cases: 53 reported, with 20 still active.
- Deaths: 2, including one in the last 24 hours.
- Affected Area:Â Primarily Uttara Kannada district.
What is Monkey Fever?
- Cause: Viral disease transmitted through tick bites, mainly in forested areas.
- First Identified: 1957, Kyasanur forest area, Karnataka.
- Transmission: Tick bites, contact with infected monkeys or carcasses.
Symptoms (within 3-8 days):
- Chills, severe headache, and fever.
- Muscle pain, vomiting, diarrhea.
- Mental disturbances, potentially low blood pressure.
- Reduced blood cell counts (platelets, red & white).
Do’s:
- Minimize Forest Exposure: If needed, wear long sleeves, pants, and insect repellent.
- Tick Precautions: Regularly check for ticks, remove them carefully with tweezers.
- Personal Hygiene: Wash hands frequently, bathe with hot water after forest visits.
- Report Symptoms:Â Seek immediate medical attention if experiencing any symptoms.
- Stay Informed:Â Follow official health department advisories and updates.
Don’ts:
- Direct Animal Contact: Avoid touching monkeys or other wildlife, dead or alive.
- Tick Removal Mishaps: Don’t crush or squeeze ticks, use proper removal techniques.
- Ignore Symptoms: Early diagnosis and treatment are crucial, don’t delay seeking help.
- Spread Misinformation:Â Rely on trusted sources for accurate information.
Additional Tips:
- Share this information with family and friends in potentially affected areas.
- Encourage preventive measures and responsible behavior near forests.
- Report any suspected KFD cases to the nearest health authorities.
Remember: KFD is preventable with awareness and responsible actions. Stay informed, follow safety guidelines, and seek medical attention if needed. Together, we can prevent the spread of this disease and protect public health.
