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Scrub Typhus Suspected in Andhra Pradesh Woman's Death
1 Dec, 2025
Summary
- A woman died with suspected scrub typhus symptoms in Vizianagaram district.
- Health officials state that rapid test kits cannot confirm scrub typhus diagnosis.
- Andhra Pradesh has seen over 1,300 scrub typhus cases reported this year.
A suspected case of scrub typhus has emerged in Vizianagaram district, Andhra Pradesh, following the death of a woman from Mettapalli village with symptoms of the disease. This bacterial infection is transmitted through the bites of infected mites.
Health Commissioner G Veerapandian clarified that current rapid diagnostic kits lack the capability to confirm scrub typhus, pending more conclusive ELISA test results. A rapid response team is investigating the death. He also addressed concerns about a surge, stating that reports are exaggerated, with over 1,300 positive cases identified out of 10,150 samples tested in 2024 so far.
Chittoor district has reported the highest number of infections this year. Health experts note that common symptoms include fever, body pain, and rash, and emphasize that most patients recover with timely antibiotic treatment like doxycycline. Fatalities are rare, primarily affecting individuals with weakened immunity or pre-existing health conditions. Preventive measures such as wearing protective clothing and using repellents are advised.
