Scrub Typhus has taken a concerning hold on the majority of districts in Odisha, with only a few areas remaining unaffected by the spreading disease. This alarming situation is not confined to rural regions; urban localities are also grappling with the infectious illness. Dr. Niranjan Mishra, Director of Health, reported that out of 22,077 individuals tested, at least 2,820 have been confirmed as infected with Scrub Typhus in the state.
A team of senior doctors and health experts from the central government has conducted assessments in Bargarh, Jharsuguda, Sambalpur, Sundargarh, and Bolangir districts to evaluate the Scrub Typhus situation. Since 2019, Odisha has been actively conducting tests to detect the disease, and the visiting team has recommended an increase in the daily number of tests.
Furthermore, the team will be submitting a comprehensive report of their findings to the Central Government.
It’s worth noting that several private hospitals in the state are conducting rapid method tests, but according to the Health Director, ELISA testing remains the most appropriate method for detecting Scrub Typhus infections.
In a recent development, Arabinda Kumar Padhee, the Secretary of Agriculture for Odisha, has tested positive for Scrub Typhus. His blood sample was sent for testing at Capital Hospital two days ago, and the results came back positive today. He is currently receiving treatment at home, and his condition is reported to be stable.
Prasanta Patnaik