8 monkey fever cases reported from Thirthahalli

The outbreak of Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), commonly known as moneky fever, in Thirthahalli taluk has triggered anxiety among people of Malnad region. A source in the Health Department said that eight KFD cases have been reported in the taluk so far. The laboratory based in Manipal, Udupi district, has confirmed that all the eight persons are affected by KFD after examining their blood samples.

The department has started mobile health care units comprising doctors, which will visit villages  where a large number of people are suffering from fever and administer vaccine to them. Blood samples of such persons are being sent to laboratories  based in Manipal and Pune for medical examination.

Taluk health officer Kiran told DH that KFD cases are reported in Chiduva, Kodige and Nellisara under Kudumallige gram panchayat. People who visit forest frequently have been directed to apply oil on their body given by the departme­nt. KFD cases are reported when the temperature is high. People should get vaccinated against KFD, he said.