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Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD)

Published: 15th Feb, 2024

Context

Karnataka is grappling with the outbreak of Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), commonly known as monkey fever.

What is Monkey Fever?

  • Monkey fever is caused by the Kyasanur Forest disease virus (KFDV), a member of the Flaviviridae virus family.
  • The KFD virus is an arbovirus belonging to the Flaviviridae family. 

Arboviruses are arthropod-borne viruses: i.e., infections transmitted mainly by small animals like arachnids and insects.

  • The virus was first identified in 1957 when it was isolated from a sick monkey in the Kyasanur Forest of Karnataka.
  • Transmission to humans primarily occurs through tick bites or contact with an infected animal, particularly a sick or recently deceased monkey.
    • There is no evidence of person-to-person transmission.
  • Prevention of monkey fever involves several strategies.
    • A vaccine is available and used in endemic areas of India.
    • Other preventative measures include using insect repellents, wearing protective clothing in tick-infested areas, and avoiding contact with potentially infected animals.
  • Treatment: There is no specific treatment for KFD. Management of the disease includes early hospitalisation and supportive therapy.
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