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Kyasanur Forest Disease in India (Maharashtra)

07 Jun 2017

Media reports indicate up to 200 people have been diagnosed with Kyasanur forest disease (KFD) in Sindhudurg district (Maharashtra) since October 2016. 12 deaths have been confirmed.

The affected subdistricts of Sindhudurg are Dodamarg, Sawantwadi, Kudal and Kanakvali. Tick control measures are being employed in affected areas.

Advice for Travellers

Monkeys, rodents, shrews and other animal can be hosts for KFD virus and the disease is transmitted by the bite of an infected tick. Most cases are reported in rural, forested areas during the dry season; November-June. KFD is endemic in southern India in the states of Karnataka, Maharashtra, Tamil Nadu and Kerala.

In India a vaccine is available against KFD in the states where the infection is endemic. The mainstay of care is supportive as there is no specific treatment for KFD. Prevention of tick bites is the primary means of protection against KFD for travellers.