ICMR-NIE Study to Assess Monkey Fever Prevalence in Western Ghats Forests

The ICMR-National Institute of Epidemiology (NIE) has started a study to assess the prevalence of Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) in the Western Ghats, spanning five states.

ICMR-National Institute of Virology (NIV) is preparing for Phase-1 trials of a KFD vaccine. The study will aid state governments in targeting vaccination areas in the Ghat region.

Also known as monkey fever, KFD is characterized by sudden high fever, prostration, nausea, vomiting, diarrhea, and sometimes neurological and hemorrhagic symptoms. It is transmitted to humans through bites of infected ticks.

Found in Karnataka, Tamil Nadu, Kerala, Maharashtra, and Goa, KFD causes 250-300 deaths annually.

According to Dr. Manoj V Murhekar, Director of ICMR-NIE, the study will determine the sero-prevalence of KFD in Western Ghat districts across the five states, distinguishing between endemic and non-endemic areas. Sero-prevalence helps estimate infection burden over time.

Dr. Murhekar stated, \"Our study will identify virus prevalence in the Western Ghats population. It will conclude by year-end. Karnataka's concern over KFD prompted our vaccine development. The study will guide vaccination in high-prevalence areas.\"

ICMR mentioned a previous ineffective vaccine by a Bengaluru firm. The new ICMR vaccine will be a two-dose jab, with clinical trials following preclinical tests to assess efficacy.

A Karnataka health official reported over 100 KFD cases and one death this year, urging vaccine development to reduce forest fatality rates.