Monkey fever in Shivamogga: Precautionary measures in DK, Udupi too

Monkey fever in Shivamogga: Precautionary measures in DK, Udupi too

Mangalore Today News Network

Mangaluru, Jan 6, 2019: With monkey fever claiming seven lives in Sagar of Shivamogga district, health authorities in Dakshina Kannada and Udupi districts have urged people to exercise caution.

However, no such incidence of Monkey fever of Kyasanoor Forest Disease,  has been reported from DK and Udupi district informed Dr Ramakrishna Rao and Dr Rohini, District Health officers of the two districts respectively.

The Health Department has planned to hold awareness programmes among people in Hebri, Kundapur and other places.

In-charge Minister of DK  UT Khader and Udupi District in-charge Minister Jayamala have said that steps would be taken to vaccinate people living on the edge of forests.

Kyasanur Forest disease (KFD) is caused by Kyasanur Forest disease virus (KFDV), a member of the virus family Flaviviridae. 

Hard ticks (Hemaphysalis spinigera) are the reservoir of KFD virus and once infected, remain so for life. Rodents, and monkeys are common hosts for KFDV after being bitten by an infected tick. 

Transmission to humans may occur after a tick bite or contact with an infected animal, most importantly a sick or recently dead monkey.

After an incubation period of 3-8 days, the symptoms of KFD begin suddenly with chills, fever, and headache. Severe muscle pain with vomiting, gastrointestinal symptoms and bleeding problems may occur 3-4 days after initial symptom onset

 However, some patients experience  a second wave of symptoms at the beginning of the third week. These symptoms include fever and signs of neurological manifestations, such as severe headache, mental disturbances, tremors, and vision problems.