Two deaths by Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), also known as monkey fever, and one death by H1N1 viral influenza, were reported in Tirthahalli taluk in the past 10 days.
Kiran S.K., taluk health officer, said 34 positive cases of KFD and 25 positive cases of H1N1 have been reported in the taluk in 2017 so far. A special ward to treat those suffering from KFD and another to cater to those suffering from H1N1 have been set up at J.C. Government Hospital in Tirthahalli town, he said.
KFD is a viral infection that is transmitted from monkeys to humans through tick bites. The first death by KFD in 2017 was reported from Chiduva village on January 30. The victim, Sheshappa Naik (72), was provided treatment for KFD at J.C. Hospital for four days. He was discharged on January 28 after getting better. His health began deteriorating on January 30 and led to his death. He had suffering been from age-related illnesses including senility and breathing issues.
Kudupa (65), a resident of Bekse-Kenjigudde village, died owing to KFD on Tuesday. He had been admitted to J.C. Hospital five days ago. As his condition aggravated, the doctors recommended shifting him to Government McGann Hospital in Shivamogga for additional treatment. He breathed his last on the way to McGann Hospital.
H1N1 has reached epidemic proportions in Vaarali, Kunda, Aralasurali and Kudumallige villages. On February 5, V.L. Nagesh (44), a farmer from Vaarali, died of H1N1.
Cases related to KFD have been reported from Kudumallige, Bejjavalli, Balebailu, Kudige and Heggaru villages. The vaccination drive to prevent its spread has been intensified in these areas.
