CURRENT AFFAIRS FOR UPSC IAS

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. 

• 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.