Symptoms of monkey fever usually appear 3 to 8 days after the tick bite. (Image: Shutterstock)
The disease originated in the dense forests of Karnataka in 1957 and has since posed a major public health challenge in several parts of South Asia.
Two people have lost their lives due to the deadly Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), commonly known as monkey fever, in the southern Indian state of Karnataka. The news, reported by Press Trust of India (PTI) and confirmed by state health officials, raised concerns over the spread of this viral infection and prompted authorities to take urgent action.
According to PTI, the first victim was an 18-year-old girl whose identity remains undisclosed. She became the initial victim of the disease, succumbing to its effects. The second death occurred in Udupi district, where a 79-year-old man from Sringeri taluk in Chikkamagaluru breathed his last at a private hospital. The identity of the person has also not been revealed.
The seriousness of the situation is underscored by the growing number of reported cases across the state. Approximately 50 positive cases of monkey fever have been documented so far, most concentrated in Uttara Kannada district, followed by Shivamogga and Chikkamagaluru districts. These alarming figures have led health authorities to call meetings and evaluate their readiness to effectively combat the spread of the disease.
Understanding Monkey Fever: Causes and Symptoms
Kyasanur forest disease, scientifically called KFD, is a viral disease caused by Kyasanur forest disease virus (KFDV). The virus belongs to the Flaviviridae family and is transmitted mainly by tick bite. The disease originated in the dense forests of Karnataka in 1957 and has since posed a major public health challenge in several parts of South Asia.
Transmission occurs when ticks, particularly the species Haemaphysalis spinigera, feed on the blood of infected animals, mainly non-human primates such as monkeys, which serve as reservoirs. Humans are susceptible to infection during outdoor activities in forested areas where infected ticks are prevalent.
Symptoms of monkey fever usually occur 3 to 8 days after the tick bite and can include high fever, severe headache, muscle pain, weakness, and gastrointestinal disorders such as nausea, vomiting, and diarrhea, according to the Institute. of Agricultural Research of the Central Coast. In severe cases, the disease can progress to complications such as encephalitis, hepatitis and multiple organ failure, posing serious risks to affected individuals.
Prevention and treatment strategies
Prevention of KFD depends on implementing effective measures to avoid tick bites and minimize exposure to infected animals. Strategies include using insect repellents containing DEET, wearing protective clothing, avoiding tick habitats, and performing regular tick checks after outdoor activities.
Unfortunately, there is no specific antiviral treatment for monkey fever. Treatment primarily involves relief of symptoms, supportive care, and close monitoring for complications. In severe cases, hospitalization for intensive therapy and observation may be necessary.
