Scrub Typhus Cases Surge in Bolangir; 337 Cases Reported in 2 Months

Bhubaneswar: Scrub typhus is emerging as a significant public health concern in Bolangir, Odisha, following outbreaks in Bargarh and Sundargarh districts. In the past two months, Bolangir has reported a total of 337 cases of scrub typhus.

In August, 172 individuals tested positive for the disease in Bolangir, and by the 22nd of this month, an additional 165 cases were diagnosed. Bolangir’s Chief District Medical Officer (in-charge), Kuber Chandra Mahant, emphasized that scrub typhus can be effectively treated with medication. Health authorities are actively raising awareness and conducting regular tests to identify new cases.

Tragically, Bargarh district has seen five scrub typhus-related fatalities since August 31, while Sundargarh district reported one recent death. In Sundargarh, a total of 221 cases have been confirmed.

Scrub typhus is caused by the bacterium Orientia tsutsugamushi and is not transmitted directly between humans. It spreads exclusively through the bites of chiggers, a type of trombiculid mite within the Leptotrombidium genus.

Health experts warn that scrub typhus primarily affects individuals who frequent farmland or forests, such as farmers. The most common symptoms include fever and itchy, inflamed skin bumps known as “eschar.” Left untreated, scrub typhus can have severe consequences, including fatalities. It is crucial for individuals in affected areas to seek urgent medical attention if they suspect they have contracted the disease.