Mysuru: Following reports of the spread of Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), commonly called monkey disease, in Manandavadi town in Kerala, a high health alert has been sounded at H.D. Kote that borders Kerala. The District Health Department has started vaccination process especially in the tribal hamlets. Vaccination process has also begun at many tribal settlements in Bandipur Tiger Reserve.
The deadly disease has claimed more than five lives in Shivamogga district. The death of 45-year-old Chandra and 34-year-old Bhaskar, both tribals in H.D. Kote had triggered rumours of the monkey disease spreading. However, the district health officials have dismissed such reports. Speaking to Star of Mysore this morning, District Health Officer Dr. B. Basavaraju said that both Bhaskar and Chandra were addicted to alcohol and had died due to the consumption of spurious liquor and kidney failure.
