Scrub typhus gains ground in Jaipur's urban areas

JAIPUR: Scrub typhus is rearing its ugly head in the city. The disease, which was believed to be restricted in rural areas, is now showing its prevalence in city areas. At least 15 persons have been found suffering with the disease in July.
Children and adults going out to play in gardens barefoot are more susceptible to the disease, which is caused by a bite of a mite, which are commonly found in grass and bushes.

During rains, areas become lush green with grass and becomes conducive for the growth of chigger mites. The disease was found in Alwar almost 10 years ago. At that time, health authorities termed it as a mysterious disease when deaths were reported in noticeable numbers. Later, it was found that scrub typhus was the bacteria responsible for the ailment.
Now, scrub typhus has gained ground in most of the districts of the state. “Even from urban areas of Jaipur, cases of scrub typhus are being reported. People need to be careful while going out in parks, lawns and areas which have lot of grass and bushes,” said Dr Narrottam Sharma, chief medical health officer (Jaipur-I).
The health department officials said since the disease is caused by the bite of a mite known as chigger, it can be prevented by taking proper precautions. They said if a person is moving out in grass or in vegetation, they can wear shoes.
When the mite bites a person, it leaves a tiny black spot. It is difficult to diagnose as the symptoms are similar to any seasonal disease. Test in laboratory is effective in diagnosis of scrub typhus. Doxycycline, an antibiotic drug, is effective in treatment of scrub typhus. The drug has widely been used while treatment of Covid in asymptomatic and mild cases.