Shivamogga, 28 Jan

A 24-year-old man from Thirthahalli taluk in Shivamogga district has died of a suspected case of Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) or monkey fever, triggering fresh concern in Karnataka’s Malnad region.

KFD is a viral haemorrhagic fever caused by a virus belonging to the Flaviviridae family.

The virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of ticks. The disease in endemic to southwestern India.

The man, a resident of a plantation area near Kattehakku, died while undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Mangaluru on Wednesday. This is the first suspected KFD-related death to be reported in the State this year, though laboratory test results are awaited.

The patient had been reportedly unwell for nearly a week and was initially admitted to a private hospital in Thirthahalli. As his condition worsened, he was referred to Mangaluru for advanced care.

Shivamogga deputy commissioner Prabhuling Kavalikatti said that the health authorities have been asked to step up surveillance, preventive measures and medical preparedness in areas bordering forests.

Meanwhile, Uttara Kannada district health officer Neeraj BV said KFD cases are typically recorded during the summer months. However, less rainfall in 2025 and a more intense summer this year may have contributed to its increased severity.

“Most of the affected persons live in hamlets located deep inside forest areas. Several such hamlets in Uttara Kannada, many of which lack proper transportation facilities, are being covered by medical personnel for treatment and monitoring,” he said.

The tick-borne disease claimed nine lives and infected 100 others in Uttara Kannada in 2025.

The Health Department has advised people who enter forest areas for livelihood activities to apply tick-repellent oil to prevent tick bites.