Health Minister visits KFD-affected areas, stresses on early awareness

NT Correspondent

Bengaluru

Health Minister Dinesh Gundurao visited areas affected by Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) in Sagara taluk of Shivamogga district on Tuesday. He toured villages like Aralagodu, Talawata, and Hiremane, where he interacted with locals and addressed concerns about the disease. Gundurao emphasised the importance of early preventive measures to control the spread of KFD, which is caused by ticks and affects both humans and animals.

During his visit, the minister urged villagers to be vigilant and reassured them that the government would provide necessary health services. He also mentioned that a vaccine for KFD is expected to be available by 2026. The government has already initiated discussions with the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) to expedite vaccine distribution. Gundurao instructed health authorities to raise awareness about KFD prevention, highlighting that the disease is treatable if detected early, and emphasised that there should be no fatalities.

He also announced that a mobile clinic would be deployed in KFD-affected areas and primary health centres would receive upgraded facilities to assist local doctors. Additionally, the minister encouraged residents to apply DEPA oil and exercise caution during the summer months. He advised villagers to immediately report any suspected cases of monkey fever to health authorities to prevent further spread.