Two positive cases of Monkey Fever reported in Karnataka’s Shivamogga
Two positive cases of Kyasanur Forest Disease commonly known as Monkey Fever has been reported from Shivamogga district in Karnataka. Belgaum, Shivamogga, Uttara Kannada, Karwar, Chikkamagalur and Hassan districts are said to be prone to this infection.
FollowShivamogga: At least two positive cases of KFD (Kyasanur Forest Disease) also known as Monkey Fever were reported in Karnataka's Shivamogga district.
"As of now, in Shivamogga district, two KFD positive cases have been reported. The first patient was around 60 years old and the second was an 18-year-old boy. Both of them have fully recovered," Kiran SK, Deputy Director of Viral Diagnostic Laboratory said on Thursday. "The first patient has been discharged and the second one has been kept under observation at a hospital," he added.
The deputy director said in keeping with ethics, the names of the patients will not be disclosed.
"We would not like to disclose the names of the patients. We have taken strict action on providing vaccines to the people of the village. We have spoken to some people and soon we will start an awareness programme too," Kiran SK said.
"The parts of the Western Ghats in India are very prone to the Kyasanur Forest Disease. Meanwhile, in Karnataka, Belgaum, Shivamogga, Uttara Kannada, Karwar, Chikkamagalur and Hassan districts are prone to this infection. This is a KFD season and we can expect some more cases," he added.
Citing the outbreak of the disease that took place last year which had claimed the lives of 23 people, with more than 400 people infected, Kiran SK said, "This year the condition should not be that bad as we have taken proper precautions. We are expecting less number of cases. Some people here are not willing to take the vaccinations even after we have had a massive outbreak."
"Just like last year, this year too, the government will give compensation to the families who lose their members due to the disease," he added.
KFD is caused by the Kyasanur Forest Disease Virus (KFDV), a member of the virus family Flaviviridae. Transmission to humans may occur after a tick bite or contact with an infected animal, in most cases a sick or recently dead monkey.
Earlier in September, the state Health Department has conducted a vaccination campaign in Shivamogga district for people suffering from KFD.
