Why is it in the news?

• A recent study has verified the existence of Kyasanur Forest Disease in districts within Karnataka.

More about Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD)

• Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) is a tick-borne viral disease primarily found in the Western Ghats region of India.
• Common symptoms include fever, conjunctivitis, and myalgia (muscle pain) among confirmed cases.
• The reported mortality rate for KFD ranges from 2% to 10%.
• It is endemic to Karnataka, but the virus causing KFD has been confirmed in additional districts such as Hassan and Mysore.
• Recent observations show the spread of KFD throughout the entire Western Ghats region, including Maharashtra, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Goa.
• The disease is transmitted through tick bites, with black-faced langur monkeys playing a crucial role in spreading the virus.
• Humans can contract KFD through tick bites, leading to significant morbidity.
• The gender and age distribution of confirmed cases vary, with males and females equally affected in the 20-40 age group, while males predominate in the paediatric and elderly age groups.
• Control measures for KFD are challenging to implement, and educating locals about the disease and using effective tick repellents are essential for disease management.