Monkey fever cases rise in Karnataka: Symptoms, treatment and preventive measures

In a shocking round of news coming from Karnataka, the number of monkey fever aka Kyasanur Forest Disease has been on the rise. Thirty-one cases of monkey fever have been reported from Karnataka's Uttara Kannada district in the last 15 days. Two deaths have been reported. Most of these infections have been reported from the Uttara Kanada district, looks like the disease is spreading.

Here are some common signs, available treatment options, and preventive measures one should know of.

What is Monkey fever and what are the symptoms?

Monkey fever is a viral disease belonging to the Flaviviridae family which is caused by a tick bite or contact with an infected animal. It is also called Kyasanur Forest Disease. At one time many monkeys died due to this infection, due to which it came to be called monkey fever.
Some common symptoms of monkey fever can be high fever, chills, muscle pain, headache, vomiting, bleeding, fall of platelets, and pain or swelling in the eyes.

Preventive methods and treatment

To avoid monkey fever, people living in areas affected by this disease should get vaccinated. 2 doses of this vaccine are given in a month. Apart from this, people living in areas where ticks are found should use repellents and go out only wearing protective clothing.

If one has visited forest areas, come back and take a bath in hot water. You should also wear protective clothes.

There is no specific treatment for the disease and doctors usually try treating the symptoms.

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