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.
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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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