Take Precautionary Measures to Prevent KFD Cases in the District: Udupi DC
DC directed health officials to conduct door-to-door awareness campaigns and focus on residents living near forested areas, who are at higher risk.
Udupi, November 22, 2024: With the possibility of Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), commonly known as monkey fever, occurring between November and June, District Commissioner Dr. K Vidyakumari has directed officials to implement necessary precautionary measures in coordination with various departments.
Presiding over an inter-departmental coordination meeting held at the DC’s office in Manipal’s Rajatadri, she discussed preventive steps to tackle KFD and other zoonotic diseases.
Highlighting the recurring cases of KFD in regions of the Western Ghats and Malnad, she noted that while no cases have been reported in the district currently, vigilance is essential, especially in forest-adjacent areas.
Dr. Vidyakumari emphasized the need for awareness campaigns, particularly regarding the disease’s transmission, which often occurs when people or cattle bring ticks from the forest. Identifying monkey death sites as “hotspots,” she explained that surveys would be conducted within a 2-km radius to monitor for fever symptoms. Additionally, local health committees in gram panchayat areas should educate residents about preventive measures and inform tourists about safety protocols.
The DC directed health officials to conduct door-to-door awareness campaigns and focus on residents living near forested areas, who are at higher risk. Symptoms of monkey fever include high fever, severe body pain, redness of the eyes, and cough lasting three to five days.
Forest department staff were instructed to report any monkey deaths immediately to health authorities and take necessary precautions for their own safety. Awareness boards along highways were suggested as a means to educate the public.
The DC also expressed concern over the rising cases of dog bites in the district and stressed the need for effective control measures. Adequate stocks of vaccines should be maintained to treat victims of dog and snake bites.
The meeting was attended by District Health and Family Welfare Officer Dr. I.P. Gadad, District Surgeon Dr. H. Ashok, District Surveillance Officer Dr. Nagarathna, Malaria Control Officer Dr. Prashanth Bhat, and other officials.
