Context: Since January 1 this year, two people have died due to Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), a viral infection, in Karnataka.
What is KFD?
- Kyasanur forest disease (KFD) is a tick-borne viral haemorrhagic fever endemic to South-western part of India.
- The disease is caused by a virus belonging to the family Flaviviridae.
- The disease was first noticed in the Kysanur Forest area in Shivamogga district, Karnataka in 1956 and was named after the region.
- Presently, a southward and northward spread of the Kyasanur Forest disease virus (KFDV) along the Western Ghats has been reported in the adjoining states of Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Goa and Maharashtra.
- It is also known as monkey fever, as monkeys also get infected and death of monkeys act as a warning sign.
- It became active due to ecological changes like deforestation, anthropogenic intrusion in pristine ecosystems.
Representation of KFD virus
Transmission and Identification
- The disease spreads through ticks.
- Primates that come in contact with infective ticks contract the disease.
- Human beings who visit the same forest area can contract the disease.
- A blood test is done to identify if someone has KFD.
Symptoms
- Fever, redness of the eyes, severe headache, and body pain are common symptoms.
- Three-four days after the onset of initial symptoms, the patient may have gastro-intestinal symptoms.
- In severe cases, bleeding from the nose is noted.
Treatment
- There is no specific treatment, doctors handle the symptoms, and monitor the vitals daily.
- The ICMR is said to be in consultation with Indian Immunological for development of a vaccine.
- The forest department is distributing DEPA oil, a tick repellent, to families who have to go into the forest.
- The State Government has also decided to provide free treatment to patients.