Rourkela, Sept 19: Scrub typhus cases are steadily rising in Odisha’s Sundargarh district, with more than 800 people testing positive for the infection so far. The continuous rise in cases has raised concern among health officials.
According to available data, around 5,600 blood samples have been tested in the district so far. More than 100 samples are being collected and tested every day from different parts of Sundargarh. Health officials apprehend that the number of cases could rise further in the coming days.
The Health Department has intensified awareness drives in areas reporting scrub typhus cases. Anganwadi workers, ASHA workers and medical teams are visiting villages to educate residents about the symptoms, transmission and preventive measures.
Common symptoms of scrub typhus include fever, headache, abdominal pain and breathing difficulties. Doctors have advised people to seek medical attention promptly if such symptoms appear, as delayed diagnosis and treatment can lead to serious complications.
Scrub typhus is an infectious disease transmitted through the bite of infected chiggers, or larval mites. People working in fields, forests and grassy areas are considered more exposed to the infection.
Health officials have advised people entering forests or fields to wear full-body clothing and take necessary precautions. Anyone developing fever or other symptoms has been urged to visit the nearest health facility without delay.
In-charge District Public Health Officer Shivashish Maharana said that the situation in Sundargarh is being continuously monitored and surveillance measures are being maintained across the district.
