JAIPUR: In just seven days from August 4-11, the state has reported 242 new cases of scrub typhus. In Jaipur too, 36 persons have been found infected with the disease.
Scrub Typhus is an acute illness caused by a bacterium Orintia Tsutsugamushi, which is transmitted by the bite of an infected mite, commonly known as chiggers, present in the soil having scrub vegetation.
Over the past one decade, scrub typhus has become a cause of concern for the health authorities. During monsoon, with more greenery around, the cases increase. It is a fatal disease, if not treated on time. The situation is better in comparison to the corresponding period last year. In 2022, more than 700 cases of scrub typhus were reported, but the sudden spike in cases in the past seven days needs improved measures to deal with it.
From January 1 to August 11, the state has reported 510 cases of scrub typhus, of which 120 were reported from Udaipur. About 47% cases of reported in 2023, so far, have been detected in the past seven days.
A health department official said, “It is a preventable disease. People should avoid grassy areas where there is a possibility of mites. Avoid contact with infected chiggers to keep yourself safe.”
Not all the districts of the state have shown an increasing trend in scrub typhus cases. Bikaner, Sriganganagar, Jodhpur, Sirohi, Jalore and Barmer did not report even a single case of scrub typhus in 2023 so far. Jaisalmer, Pali, Dungarpur, and Nagaur reported one case each this year. The districts which have reported the highest number of scrub typhus cases in 2023 are Udaipur (120), Jaipur (90), Dausa (46) and Alwar (32).
Start a Conversation
Post comment