CM Naidu directs officials to educate public on scrub typhus, clarifies it’s not contagious

Amaravati: Chief Minister Nara Chandrababu Naidu has directed health officials to launch a widespread awareness campaign on scrub typhus infection after the recent death of a woman in Vizianagaram district.

Reviewing the situation with Medical and Health Principal Secretary Saurabh Gaur at the Secretariat on Tuesday, the Chief Minister stressed that such incidents must not repeat anywhere in the state. Naidu stated that people should be informed about scrub typhus.

What is scrub typhus?

It is a disease caused by the bacterium Orientia tsutsugamushi, transmitted through the bite of larval-stage trombiculid mites, commonly known as chiggers.

Not a contagious disease

Officials clarified that scrub typhus does not spread from person to person. Common symptoms include high fever, chills, severe headache, muscle pain and sores at the bite site. They said timely medical intervention ensures recovery.

Victim treated for typhoid initially

During the meeting, officials briefed him on the death of Chandaka Rajeshwari, who was initially treated for typhoid before being diagnosed with scrub typhus through a rapid test. She died while undergoing treatment at the government hospital in Vizianagaram.

The Chief Minister instructed officials to intensify public outreach on symptoms and risks associated with the disease.

CM Naidu emphasised the need to educate people, especially in rural areas, and to maintain clean surroundings to prevent the spread of mite-infested areas. He instructed that prompt testing be conducted in cases of insect bites and that the Health Department be fully prepared to provide immediate treatment.

1,346 samples tested positive

Officials reported scrub typhus cases in Chittoor, Kakinada, East Godavari, ASR, and Konaseema districts. Of the 6,778 samples tested across the state so far this year, 1,346 were positive.

In 2024, 1,613 of 10,150 samples tested positive, and in 2023, 1,295 of 7,281 samples.

Chittoor has reported the highest number of infections this year at 384, followed by Kakinada with 146, Visakhapatnam with 124 and YSR Kadapa with 97.

The Chief Minister said that awareness at all levels is essential to prevent deaths from such avoidable causes and ensure that minor insect bites do not turn fatal.

Where are these mites found?

These mites are typically found in areas with scrub vegetation, grass, or fields, putting people who work or walk in such environments at higher risk. After a bite, a small dark scab called an eschar may appear at the site and symptoms usually develop a week or two later.

How to protect oneself and family

– Avoid sitting or walking barefoot in grass, bushes, farms or overgrown areas.

– Wear full-sleeved clothing when outdoors.

– Use insect repellents

– Keep surroundings clean — clear overgrown grass, dry blankets under sunlight and maintain hygiene around cattle sheds.

– Seek medical care immediately for persistent fever, especially if you notice a scab-like spot on the skin.

Treatment

According to health officials, early treatment with antibiotics such as doxycycline or azithromycin for pregnant women is crucial to prevent complications affecting the lungs, liver, kidneys or central nervous system.