Kyasanur Forest Disease

Kyasanur forest disease was first recognised in 1957 during a fatal epizootic of wild monkeys in Mysore (Karnataka), India. Forest workers are particularly at risk, and mortality may reach 10%. The causative virus is a tick-borne virus belonging to the genus Flavivirus of the family Flaviviridae, which has been isolated from ticks, monkeys, and humans. The principal vector appears to be the tick Haemaphysalis spinigera, whereas the vertebrate reservoir is uncertain.

Manifestations: The symptoms are:

Diagnose and treatment: There is no specific treatment for the disease.

Vaccination: The vaccine available for control of Kyasanur forest disease is an inactivated virus vaccine.

Prevent Kyasanur forest disease by:

• Vaccination
• Avoid mosquito bites by remaining in well screened areas
• Avoid mosquito bites by remaining in air-conditioned areas.
• Use mosquito repellents on skin and clothing
• Bring aerosol insecticides to use indoors
• Use bednets.

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