New viruses seem to be emerging faster than ever before. A new virus that causes monkey fever has also caught people in India. Also known as Kasanur Forest Disease (KFD), monkey fever has claimed two lives in Karnataka. Cases of ‘monkey fever’ are increasing in the state recently. As the situation worsened, the health authorities had to take immediate measures to control the outbreak. According to media reports, an 18-year-old girl and a 79-year-old man have contracted the virus. If it is fatal, you should be fully aware of monkey fever and how it spreads.

Health Shots caught up with Dr Divya KS, Consultant Infectious Disease Specialist at Apollo Hospitals to understand how monkey fever spreads and what you can do to prevent the spread of the disease.

What is monkey fever?

Monkey fever or Cassanur Forest Disease (KFD) is caused by the KFD virus, an arbovirus that infects rats and monkeys, according to the Indian Journal of Medical Research. It is named after the Kasanur forest where the disease was first reported in India.

Karnataka’s Uttara Kannada district has reported 31 cases of the disease and it has claimed two lives.

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Is monkey fever contagious?

Infection occurs through the bite of a tick carrying the virus or through contact with an infected animal such as monkeys. The infection is transmitted to humans through the bites of ticks on infected monkeys. However, person-to-person transmission has not been explained so far, the expert said.

What are the symptoms of monkey fever?

After contracting the virus and an incubation period of three to seven days, “it starts as a sudden onset of fever with chills, headache and severe body aches. An infected person may also experience vomiting and other gastrointestinal symptoms. When severe, over the next three or four days, it can cause a drop in pressure, drop in counts and bleeding,” explains Dr Divya.

Now KFT is historically confined to western and central districts of Karnataka state. People living in or visiting these areas should report the above signs and symptoms to a health care professional immediately.

How to avoid it?

There is no cure for Cassanur Forest disease, but if a patient notices any symptoms, they should be hospitalized quickly and supportive treatment is important, the expert said. You need to stay well hydrated to maintain your health, and if you notice any serious symptoms, such as a drop in pressure or counts that could cause bleeding, you should get it taken care of.

When you visit infested areas, you can also take precautions by following preventive measures such as using insect repellents and wearing protective clothing where ticks are endemic.