Ujjalpur, Oct 24: Scrub typhus has raised concerns in Odisha’s Sundargarh district following the reported death of a 63-year-old man from Ujjalpur village under Tangarpali block.

The deceased, identified as Harihar Patta, reportedly fell ill after being bitten by an insect while working in a field, according to his family members.

He was initially taken to the Sargipali Community Health Centre for treatment. Following medical advice, he was shifted to the district headquarters hospital for advanced care. Doctors declared him dead at around 1 pm on Friday. According to the family, the hospital’s test report indicated that he was infected with scrub typhus.

The incident has reportedly triggered fear among residents of Ujjalpur and surrounding areas. Locals have alleged that adequate awareness and preventive measures are not being taken by the health authorities in Tangarpali block and the Mangespur Community Health Centre area.

However, Dr Nutan Kujur, superintendent of the community health centre, said he had no information about Harihar’s reported death due to scrub typhus.

Scrub typhus is a bacterial infection transmitted through the bite of infected larval mites, commonly known as chiggers. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are important to prevent serious complications.