India: Monkey fever on the rise; Simian population dwindling

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SOUTHERN NEWS - KARNATAKA Mar 30, 2006

 

Monkey fever on the rise; Simian population dwindling

 

Thursday March 30 2006 11:34 IST

SHIMOGA: Death of monkeys has been noticed near Megaravalli in Tirthahalli

taluk. It is suspected that they might have died due to Kyasanur Forest

Disease, popularly known as Monkey Fever.

 

Taluk Medical Officer Dr H D Veerannavar confirmed that these monkeys died

due to KFD. He also said that Health Department had taken all care to

prevent its spreading among humans.

 

Already 1,200 doses of vaccination have been given to the people. People

have been asked to alert the Department if they notice death of monkeys in 5

kms radius from Megaravalli.

 

So far, nine cases of KFD on people have been recorded in the current year.

Proper treatment has already been given to them, he said. One case reported

in Andagere village was referred to Government Mc Gann Hospital for higher

treatment.