Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD)
Why in news?
Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), also known as monkey fever, is a tick-borne viral hemorrhagic fever endemic to forested regions of Karnataka's Western Ghats. Recently an early death in the 2026 season, signaling potential outbreaks amid ongoing vaccine developments.
Key Facts About Kyasanur Forest Disease
- Cause: KFD virus (family Flaviviridae), transmitted by hard ticks (Haemaphysalis spinigera).
- Reservoirs: Monkeys and rodents act as amplifying hosts; humans are infected via tick bites, not directly from monkeys.
- Geographic Spread: Endemic in forested regions of Karnataka, Kerala, Goa, Maharashtra, and Tamil Nadu.
- Seasonality: Most cases occur between December and May, coinciding with peak tick activity.
Symptoms
- Incubation period: 3–8 days after tick bite.
- Early signs: Sudden fever, chills, severe headache, muscle pain, vomiting, and gastrointestinal upset.
- Complications:
- Hemorrhagic symptoms (bleeding gums, nosebleeds, gastrointestinal bleeding) appear 3–4 days after onset.
- Low blood pressure, reduced platelet count, anemia, and leukopenia.
- Recovery: Some patients recover in 1–2 weeks, but severe cases can be fatal.
Prevention & Control
- Vaccination: A formalin-inactivated tissue culture vaccine is available in endemic districts; booster doses are required annually.
- Personal Protection:
- Wear long clothing when visiting forests.
- Use tick repellents and check for ticks after exposure.
- Community Measures:
- Avoid handling sick or dead monkeys.
- Health departments conduct tick control and awareness campaigns in affected areas.
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