Home / Health / Scrub Typhus Alert: Kozhikode Woman Dies, Cases Rise
Scrub Typhus Alert: Kozhikode Woman Dies, Cases Rise
10 Jan
Summary
- A woman in Kozhikode died from scrub typhus, prompting health alerts.
- Scrub typhus spreads via infected chigger mite bites, not person-to-person.
- Preventive measures include rodent control and personal protection in grasslands.
Health authorities in Kozhikode have issued a critical alert after a woman from Koyilandy municipality succumbed to scrub typhus. Her samples confirmed the presence of the bacteria Orientia tsutsugamushi, prompting immediate public health interventions.
The disease, spread through bites from infected chigger mites found on small animals like rats and squirrels, is not contagious between humans. Health officials have intensified cleaning efforts around the deceased's residence and initiated rodent testing to curb potential outbreaks.
Residents are urged to maintain environmental hygiene and implement rodent control measures. Those venturing into grasslands or forested areas should wear protective clothing, use mite repellents, and practice thorough hygiene post-exposure to prevent further cases.
