A 29-year-old resident of Katagaru village in Thirthahalli taluk, Shivamogga district, died on Wednesday in Manipal after testing positive for Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), also known as monkey fever. The man had initially developed a fever on January 21 and was admitted to Jayachamarajendra Hospital before being transferred for advanced treatment.

Officials confirmed that no other residents from Katagaru village have reported KFD symptoms so far. District Surveyor Dr. Nagaraj Naik stated that official confirmation from Manipal Hospital is awaited to determine whether the death was solely due to KFD or complications from other conditions.

KFD is a tick-borne viral hemorrhagic fever endemic to southwestern India. The virus, from the Flaviviridae family, is transmitted to humans via infected hard ticks (Haemaphysalis spinigera), which thrive in forested regions. Symptoms include high fever, severe headache, chills, muscle pain, vomiting, and gastrointestinal issues, sometimes progressing to bleeding disorders and dangerously low blood counts.

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The disease primarily affects villages adjacent to forests, especially in the Malnad region, which includes Shivamogga, Uttara Kannada, and Chikkamagaluru districts. Individuals who frequently enter forests and avoid vaccination are at the highest risk of infection. Health officials emphasize the importance of early diagnosis and preventive measures.

Medical experts advise people in the Western Ghats to take precautions, such as wearing protective clothing, using tick repellents, and getting vaccinated against KFD, to reduce the risk of contracting the disease. Authorities are monitoring the area closely to prevent further spread and are urging villagers to report any fever or unusual symptoms immediately.

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