Early diagnosis crucial as scrub typhus risk rises statewide
HYDERABAD: Doctors have urged the public not to ignore any insect bite that leaves a black spot or rash on the skin, warning that even mild symptoms could indicate scrub typhus. Fever, headache and body pain appearing a day or two after a bite require immediate medical attention, they said.
Doctors caution against delay in treatment
Many patients are taking over-the-counter medicines without consulting doctors, resulting in dangerous delays in treatment. Though scrub typhus cases have been reported in the state for several years, doctors said the recent series of deaths has raised concern. The infection is caused by the bite of a tiny chigger mite.
With the mite population high from August to February, the government has advised people to stay alert to prevent the disease. Health officials said early diagnosis and timely antibiotics can control the infection effectively.
Precautions health officials advise
Residents have been asked to maintain clean surroundings, including cattle sheds. Areas with gardens, grass and bushes must be cleared regularly. As mite activity increases at night, homes must be kept free of rodents and insects. Children and adults should wear clothing that fully covers the body.
Sleeping outdoors or on bare ground without protection is unsafe, doctors said. Old bedding and furniture should be cleaned frequently as insects can hide in crevices. Mattresses and blankets must be dusted and washed before use. Doctors warned that children face a higher risk of severe infection.
Testing facilities expanded across the state
Suspected cases can now be tested at major hospitals, including teaching hospitals and Guntur Government Hospital. Seventeen public health laboratories across the state are also equipped to conduct diagnostic tests.
About the disease and how it spreads
Scrub typhus is caused by the bacterium Orientia tsutsugamushi. It spreads to humans through the bite of a chigger mite and does not transmit from person to person. The mites thrive in poorly maintained vegetable gardens, fields, grasslands, riverbanks, sand mounds and cattle enclosures. Rodents, livestock and other animals also carry them.
Farmers working in fields and children playing in unmanaged grassy areas are at higher risk.
Symptoms and complications
Symptoms include fatigue, high fever, chills, headache and body pain. A black scab or rash often develops at the bite site. Some patients experience digestive or respiratory problems.
If untreated, the infection can affect the lungs, brain, kidneys and other organs, leading to coma in severe cases. Doctors said the mortality rate is below 2% with timely treatment but can increase to 6%–30% if diagnosis is delayed.
Diagnostic options include Radispp, Weil–Felix and IgM ELISA tests. Early use of doctor-prescribed antibiotics ensures recovery.
