Wed Dec 10 18:34:14 UTC 2025: Summary:

Andhra Pradesh is experiencing a surge in scrub typhus cases, leading Telangana health officials to issue precautionary advisories. While Telangana reports the situation is currently under control, they are urging residents to take preventative measures against mite bites, especially during the holiday season when outdoor activities increase. Scrub typhus, a bacterial infection transmitted by infected mites, causes fever, chills, and body aches, and can lead to serious complications if left untreated. Doctors emphasize the importance of wearing protective clothing, avoiding areas with potential mite infestations, and seeking prompt medical attention for any suspicious symptoms following outdoor excursions.

News Article:

Telangana Urges Precautions as Scrub Typhus Cases Surge in Neighboring Andhra Pradesh

HYDERABAD – December 11, 2025 – In the wake of a reported spike in scrub typhus cases and related deaths in Andhra Pradesh, Telangana health officials are advising residents to take extra precautions to prevent infection. While the state currently maintains that the situation is under control, health authorities are urging families to be vigilant, particularly as holiday travel and outdoor gatherings increase during December.

Scrub typhus is a bacterial infection caused by Orientia tsutsugamushi, transmitted to humans through the bite of infected larval mites, often called chiggers. Symptoms include fever, chills, headache, body aches, and potentially a dark, scab-like lesion at the bite site.

Telangana’s Director of Public Health, Ravinder Naik, stated that while no specific guidance has been received from the Union government, public health facilities are on alert with readily available medicines, beds, and staff to handle fever and respiratory cases.

“Scrub typhus presents similar to other high-grade fevers and can progress to serious complications involving the liver or brain,” explained Dr. G. Vijay Kumar, Superintendent of Niloufer Hospital. He assured that the infection is treatable with antibiotics such as doxycycline and azithromycin.

Pulmonologist Dr. Vyakarnam Nageshwar highlighted the increased risk during the winter break as families frequent farms, resorts, and gardens. He emphasized that simple precautions could prevent nearly 90% of cases. “People should avoid bushes and crop fields during outings, ensure that children wear full shirts, full trousers and shoes, and take a thorough shower immediately after returning home,” he urged.

Health officials also stressed the importance of seeking immediate medical attention for any rash, itching, or sore at the site of a bite accompanied by fever or body pain after an outdoor trip. Prompt diagnosis and treatment are crucial to preventing serious complications from scrub typhus.

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