KFD virus in carcass viscera in Kundapur

The Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) virus was detected in the viscera of monkeys reported dead in Kundapur taluk, the Viral Diagnostic Laboratory (VDL), Shivamogga, revealed in its report to the district administration on Wednesday.

Dr Prashanth Bhat, district nodal officer for the KFD (monkey fever) and district malaria officer, told DH that the viscera collected from Siddapura, Hosangadi, Shiroor, Byndoor, Kandlur, Belwee, Brahmavar, and Hirgana had tested positive for the virus.

The ‘fever survey’ had been intensified in the above mentioned villages, to prevent the transmission of KFD to residents of villages on the fringes of the forest areas. With the help of health workers, residents who had been complaining of fever are being identified and taken for treatment to the nearest hospital, said the officer.

In villages with a history of monkey fever attack, the blood smears of residents were being collected by health officials.

“As the disease is being spread through a virus, the public need not be apprehensive or tense. Only 5% of the cases that test positive for the disease would develop complications requiring life-supporting treatment,” Dr Bhat explained.

“Compared to other infectious diseases like dengue, dealing with monkey fever is easier. People venturing into the forest should wear protective cloth or apply DMP oil to prevent tick bites,” the officer advised.