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Kyasanur Forest disease in India

28 Dec 2017

The Media in India has reported that 5 human cases of Kyasanur Forest disease (KFD), including 1 death, have been reported in the week prior to 25 December 2017 in Tirthahalli taluk, in the Shimaga district of Karnataka. In addition tests on 5 dead monkeys found in the area in December confirmed that they were infected with KFD.

Advice for Travellers

Monkeys, rodents, shrews and other animal can be hosts for KFD virus and the disease is transmitted by the bite of an infected tick. Most cases are reported in rural, forested areas during the dry season; November-June. KFD is endemic in southern India in the states of Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

In India a vaccine is available against KFD in the states where the infection is endemic. The mainstay of care is supportive as there is no specific treatment for KFD. Prevention of tick bites is the primary means of protection against KFD for travellers.