There have been two deaths in Karnataka from monkey fever, also known as Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), which has prompted the need for immediate action and the adoption of preventative measures to stop the disease’s spread.
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Monkey Fever Karnataka
A virus called monkey fever, sometimes called Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), is mostly spread to people by tick bites in forest environments. In particular, Karnataka, Maharashtra, and Goa are the regions of India where it is epidemic.
The virus mostly affects primates, particularly langurs, and can cause hemorrhagic fever in humans, which can be deadly. Within three to five days of acquiring the virus, symptoms appear.
As per the most recent news sources, the Uttara Kannada district of Karnataka has reported 49 instances of monkey fever, with two fatalities attributed to the illness. Monkey fever is characterised by an abrupt fever, headache, body aches, nausea, digestive discomfort, and diarrhoea.
In extreme situations, neurological issues and bleeding from the gums and nostrils may happen. Avoiding contact with disease-carrying animals or ticks, wearing protective clothing, and applying repellents against insects can all help prevent the illness.
There have been 49 confirmed instances of monkey fever in the state thus far, with the highest number of cases 34 occurring in the district of Uttara Kannada, followed by Shivamogga 12 and Chikkamagaluru district 3.
How many people died from monkey Fever in Karnataka?
Monkey fever claimed the lives of two persons in the southern Indian state of Karnataka, according to reports from the state’s health department. The documented occurrences compelled the authorities to convene and assess their readiness to combat the viral disease.
The first recorded death from Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), also known as monkey fever, was an 18-year-old female reported in Hosanagara taluk of Shimoga on 8 January.
According to the reports, a 79-year-old man from Sringeri taluk in Chikmagalur passed away in a private hospital, marking the second fatality in the Udupi district.
What caused the Karnataka Monkey Fever and what are the Symptoms?
The virus is spread by tick bites or, less frequently, through contact with infected animals, mostly monkeys. Fever is one of the symptoms, along with any neurological or hemorrhagic aspects.
About 20% of patients experience serious hemorrhagic or neurological problems, despite the fact that 80% of patients recover without any post-viral symptoms. An estimated 500 human KFDV infections occur each year, with a 3-5% case fatality rate.
KFDV is categorised as a Biosafety level 4 (BSL4) virus since it poses a hazard to human life and there are no viable countermeasures. Here are a few typical signs of monkey fever:
- High fever
- Muscle pain
- Headache
- Vomiting
- Chills
- Dizziness
- Bleeding
- Diarrhea
- Fatigue
- Digestive Problem
- Fall of platelets
- Pain or swelling in the eyes
Is there any Vaccine for Monkey Fever in Karnataka?
Monkey fever, also known as Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), is a viral disease that mostly affects wooded areas and is spread to humans by tick bites. Fortunately, there is a vaccine for it. Karnataka and its forested regions have been using the 0.1% formalin inactivated tissue culture vaccination since the late 1990s.
This vaccine is administered to those who are most vulnerable to monkey fever, such as those who work or reside in endemic areas. Two doses of the vaccine are given one month apart, and six to nine months later, a booster shot.
Fever, headaches, and injection site discomfort are only a few of the adverse effects that the vaccination may produce; it is not 100% effective. Thus, it’s a good idea to take other precautions as well, such as donning protective gear, applying insect repellent, and avoiding contact with sick animals or ticks.
What are the precautions you should take to avoid monkey fever?
A virus known as “monkey fever” can be spread via tick bites or contact with sick monkeys. Fever, headaches, bleeding, and neurological issues can all be brought on by it. Here are some precautions you should take to avoid monkey fever:
- For protection against ticks and monkeys, wear long sleeves, long trousers, and boots when you visit forested regions.
- To keep ticks away from your skin and clothing, apply insect repellents.
- Keep your distance from monkeys and their bodily secretions, especially if they are dead or ill.
- If you have any of the following symptoms: fever, headache, body aches, vomiting, or bleeding seek medical treatment.
- If you reside in or visit high-risk regions like Karnataka, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu, be vaccinated against monkey fever. The vaccination is administered in two doses spaced one month, six months, and a year apart.
- Hydrating the patient is the most important and initial action, even though some antivirals could be helpful.
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