In recent weeks, a series of unfortunate incidents have occurred in the Bargarh district of Odisha state, leaving at least five people dead due to typhus, a life-threatening infectious disease. Additionally, four other people in the district have tested positive for the disease, raising concerns about a possible outbreak.
Sadhu Charan Das, district public health officer, reported that the victims were from various areas of Bargarh district, including Sohela, Attabira, Bheden and Barpali. Two of the deceased were diagnosed at Veer Surendra Sai Institute of Medical Sciences and Research (VIMSAR) in Burla, while the others were treated at Vikash Hospital in Bargarh and a private clinic in Balangir.
It is worth mentioning that Bargarh district had an outbreak of typhus in 2014 but fortunately, there were no casualties at that time. Meanwhile, Indra Gandhi Medical College and Hospital reported that at least nine people have died from the infection since last week. The hospital has seen a constant influx of patients with typhus symptoms.
What is Scrub Typhus?
Typhus, also known as bush typhus, jungle typhus, or mite typhus, is an acute infectious disease caused by the parasite Orientia tsutsugamushi. Humans contract this disease through the bites of certain species of trombiculid mites, commonly known as chiggers. These ticks acquire infection in their larval stage from wild rodents or other small animals, then are transmitted to humans when they bite. Typhus is found mainly in Southeast Asia, related archipelagos, northern Australia and Japan. It was first described in Japan in 1899 and studied extensively from 1906 to 1932. During World War II, typhus posed a significant threat to troops stationed in rural areas or in the Pacific jungle, leading to death and disability.
Common signs and symptoms of typhus:
- High fever
- Headache
- Muscle pain
- Itchy skin
- A dark scale-like area at the site of a flea bite, also known as Eschar
- Mental changes, from confusion to coma
- Enlarged lymph nodes
Diagnosis, testing and prevention:
Diagnosing scrub typhus can be difficult because its symptoms are similar to many other diseases. If you have been to areas where the disease is widespread, it is important to consult your doctor and provide your travel history. Blood tests and lab work may be needed, but it's important to note that these results can take several weeks to process.
The main treatment for typhus is the antibiotic Doxycycline, which is safe to use for all ages but is most effective when used soon after symptoms appear.
It is essential to know that severe cases of typhus can lead to organ failure and bleeding, which can be fatal if not treated.
In conclusion, the recent outbreak of scrub typhus in Bargarh district is a cause for concern and it is essential that people in the affected areas are aware of the symptoms, seek medical attention promptly and take preventive measures to avoid further agitators.
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