Scrub Typhus in Andhra Pradesh: There are many such small insects around us, whose bite can spread serious diseases. These days, a disease called scrub typhus is spreading rapidly in many districts of Andhra Pradesh. So far, three women have died due to this and one person is undergoing treatment. According to health experts, when people are infected with scrub typhus, they experience symptoms like high fever, vomiting, headache and body ache. If it is not treated at the right time, death can also occur. This is not a new disease, but has been wreaking havoc in Andhra Pradesh for many years. Hundreds of cases are reported every year.
Data from the health authorities of Andhra Pradesh show that 579 cases of scrub typhus were reported in the state in the year 2023, while this figure reached 803 in 2024. By 30th November in the year 2025, 736 people have been affected by scrub typhus in Andhra Pradesh and this number may increase significantly by the end of December. State Health Minister Y Satyakumar Yadav has appealed to the people not to panic and described it as a fever like malaria and dengue. Now the question is what is scrub typhus, how does it spread and how to prevent it? Let us know about this from the doctor.
What is scrub typhus and how does it spread?
Dr. Sonia Rawat, Director of Preventive Health and Wellness Department, Sir Gangaram Hospital, New Delhi told StuffUnknown. Scrub typhus is a bacterial infection, which is spread by a bacteria called Orientia tsutsugamushi. This bacteria does not spread directly to humans, rather insects like chiggers or larval mites transmit it to humans. When small insects that look like black flies bite humans, this bacteria enters their body. These small insects are found in bushes, grass, fields and wood piles. People working in fields, living in forests or going to grassy places are more at risk.
What are the symptoms and treatment of this disease?
According to the doctor, symptoms of scrub typhus infection start appearing 6 to 10 days after the insect bite. This may include high fever, shivering, vomiting, headache, body ache, fatigue, stomach pain, cough and trouble breathing. In many patients, a black wound is formed where the insect has bitten. This symptom helps a lot in identifying scrub typhus. In severe cases, this infection can also affect the lungs, kidneys and brain. Scrub typhus is treatable and with timely treatment the patient recovers completely. Generally, antibiotics like doxycycline are given to treat this infection. However, the medicine should be taken only on the advice of the doctor. People should consult a doctor if symptoms of this disease appear. If fever persists for a few days, it is important to get tested immediately.
What to do to avoid this infection?
Experts said that to avoid scrub typhus infection, it is important to avoid insects. This infection spreads directly through the bite of infected insects. When going out into the grass, bushes, fields or forests, wear full sleeve clothes, socks and keep your feet covered. Using mosquito or insect repellent is also very effective. Keeping the bushes around the house clean and being careful while working in the fields can also help in prevention. Scrub typhus can become a fatal disease, but timely identification and proper treatment can prevent deaths from it.
