Rising Monkey Fever Cases in India: A Health Alert

What is Monkey Fever?

Monkey fever, also known as Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), is a viral hemorrhagic fever transmitted by infected ticks, primarily in forested areas. Symptoms include fever, headache, muscle pain, vomiting, and bleeding tendencies. It primarily affects monkeys and can be transmitted to humans through tick bites or contact with infected animals.

Recent Outbreaks in India

In the wake of the recent outbreak of the disease, a health alert has been issued by the health department in the Wayanad district in Kerala. As many as 49 suspected KFD cases and two deaths have been reported in Karnataka since January 1. The two deceased people are an 18-year-old girl and a 79 old man.

How Does Monkey Fever Spread?

Monkey fever primarily spreads through the bite of infected ticks belonging to the Haemaphysalis genus, particularly Haemaphysalis spinigera. These ticks primarily feed on monkeys, serving as reservoir hosts for the Kyasanur Forest Disease Virus (KFDV). Humans can become infected through tick bites or contact with blood or tissues of infected animals.

Prevention and Treatment

There is no specific treatment for KFD, but vaccination and preventive measures such as tick avoidance and wearing protective clothing can reduce the risk of infection. To stay safe from monkey fever (Kyasanur Forest Disease), take precautions when visiting forested areas where the disease is endemic.