Health Department Urges Alertness in Shivamogga Forest Areas Amid KFD Cases

The Department of Health and Family Welfare in Shivamogga district has issued an urgent appeal to the public, particularly residents living near forest areas, to remain vigilant following a rise in Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) cases. The alert specifically targets the Malnad region, where recent infections have been confirmed. District Health Officer K.S. Nataraj announced that cases are currently being reported from several taluks, including Sagar, Hosanagara, and Tirthahalli. In Tirthahalli, infections were identified within the limits of primary health centres in Aralasuruli, Megaravalli, Katagaru, Horogulige, Yogimath, Maluru, and Bettabasavani. Hosanagara taluk reported cases in Sonale, Huncha, and Ripponpet, while Sagar taluk saw infections in villages under Talaguppa PHC and parts of Talavata gram panchayat. The health authorities emphasize caution to prevent further spread of the tick-borne viral hemorrhagic fever, which is endemic to this part of Karnataka. Residents are advised to take necessary precautions when entering or living in proximity to forested zones to mitigate the risk of infection.