Amaravathi/Hyderabad, Dec 18 (Maxim News): Scrub typhus cases are steadily increasing across Andhra Pradesh, with health authorities confirming 1,806 positive cases so far. Officials said 9,236 people have been tested statewide, indicating a significant spread of the infection in recent weeks.
According to health department data, 15 deaths have been reported among infected patients. However, doctors clarified that scrub typhus alone was not the sole cause of death. They stated that the deceased patients were also suffering from long term chronic illnesses, which aggravated their condition.
District wise data shows Chittoor district reporting the highest number of scrub typhus cases at 444. This is followed by Kakinada with 183 cases and Visakhapatnam with 143 cases. YSR Kadapa district has recorded 118 cases, while Nellore has reported 113 cases. Vizianagaram has seen 96 cases, Tirupati 90, Guntur 85, and Anantapur 83 cases.
Health officials said Palnadu district recorded the highest number of deaths, with three fatalities linked to scrub typhus complications. Medical experts explained that scrub typhus spreads through the bite of chigger mites, commonly found in areas where livestock are present. Therefore, rural regions are more vulnerable to the infection.
Doctors noted that scrub typhus symptoms often resemble malaria. Patients may develop fever, body pain, and a distinct black scab or mark at the site of the insect bite. Because the symptoms are similar to other seasonal illnesses, early diagnosis becomes critical.
Medical professionals have urged people not to ignore symptoms and to seek immediate treatment if fever persists. They stressed that timely medical intervention can significantly reduce complications and prevent fatalities. Health authorities are also advising increased awareness in villages, improved hygiene around cattle shelters, and prompt testing to control the spread of scrub typhus in Andhra Pradesh. (Maxim News)
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