The Puducherry Health Department has issued an advisory urging residents to stay vigilant against scrub typhus, a bacterial infection caused by the bite of infected mites. The disease, prevalent in neighbouring states and more common during winter, is not contagious and spreads only through mite bites. Pets like cats, dogs, and rodents carrying infected mites can also pose a risk to humans. Symptoms include fever, chills, fatigue, rashes, swollen lymph nodes, and a characteristic dry, dark wound at the bite site called an eschar.
If left untreated, scrub typhus can lead to severe complications such as pneumonia, organ failure, brain fever, and even death. An advisory issued by Puducherry Health Department Director Dr. Ravichandran has urged residents, especially vulnerable groups like the elderly and individuals with pre-existing conditions, to seek immediate medical attention if symptoms appear.
To prevent infection, the department recommends regular cleaning of bedding, clearing bushes around homes, and using insect repellents during outdoor activities.
