IGMC, Shimla, reports 298 scrub typhus cases

Tribune News Service

Advertisement

Shimla, October 6

The Indira Gandhi Medical College and Hospital (IGMC) reported 298 cases deaths so far, this year. While the number of cases this year appears more than that recorded in the past few years, deaths have dropped significantly. “The mortality rate was as high as 30 per cent, three years back. We have managed to bring down the mortality rate below 2 per cent,” said IGMC Deputy MS Dr Rahul Gupta.

Dr Gupta said the mortality rate had been high, as some patients, if not treated for six-seven days, developed septicemia, followed by organ failure in some cases.

“In the last couple of years, we have started treating patients with injectable antibiotics such as doxycycline and azithromycine. Earlier, the patients were given oral medicines, which were not as effective,” said Dr Gupta.

Dr Gupta said people generally contracted this disease while working in fields, mainly while cutting grass, where the mite that spreads the disease is present. “If people develop fever while working in the fields or cutting grass, they should immediately go to the nearby health facility and take medicine,” said Dr Gupta.

He advised people to wear gumboots, gloves and full-sleeved clothes while cutting grass. “People should take bath and change clothes after returning home,” said Dr Gupta.

IGMC usually treats around 300 scrub typhus cases every year, with majority of these reported between June and October. “This time, the number of cases seems to be slightly higher. The good thing is we have managed to reduce the mortality rate significantly,” said Dr Gupta.