Cases of monkey fever are increasing in India; learn what it is and how to avoid it

Karnataka is seeing an increase of monkey fever, also known as the Kyasanur Forest Disease, or KFD. The Keralan district of Wayanad health department has released a health notice following the current sickness epidemic.

Since January 1, Karnataka has recorded up to 49 suspected KFD cases and two deaths. area Medical Officer P. Dineesh informed the media that as the area borders Karnataka, people should be on the lookout for the disease's spread. The two deceased individuals are a 79-year-old male and an 18-year-old girl.

Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFDV), a member of the Flavivirus family, is the source of monkey fever, also known as Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), a viral hemorrhagic fever.

Primarily in wooded locations where monkeys, especially langur and bonnet macaques, act as reservoir hosts, it is spread via the biting of infected ticks.

How does it proliferate?The primary method of transmission for monkey fever, also known as Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), is by tick bites from infected members of the Haemaphysalis genus, namely Haemaphysalis spinigera. These ticks are reservoir hosts for the Kyasanur Forest Disease Virus (KFDV), mostly feeding on monkeys. Infected monkeys spread the virus to new populations of ticks when they travel through wooded regions. Tick bites or contact with the blood or tissues of infected animals can spread the infection to humans. Consuming unpasteurized milk from infected animals or touching contaminated objects can potentially result in transmission. Person-to-person transmission of KFDV is uncommon, nevertheless.

Monkey fever symptoms include fever, headache, soreness in the muscles, vomiting, and bleeding tendencies. Severe instances can also cause hemorrhagic symptoms and neurological problems. Although there isn't a particular therapy for KFD, the chance of infection can be decreased with immunization and preventive actions including avoiding ticks and donning protective gear.

When visiting wooded areas where the disease is endemic, take care to avoid contracting monkey fever, also known as Kyasanur Forest Disease. Tick exposure can be reduced by using closed-toe shoes, long-sleeved shirts, and trousers. Apply DEET-containing insect repellents to exposed skin and clothes treated with permethrin. Steer clear of monkeys and their environments as they may be contaminated with ticks. After engaging in outdoor activities, thoroughly inspect yourself, your family, and your pets for ticks.