Kyasanur Forest Disease in India

Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), an emerging tick-borne viral haemorrhagic fever, caused by Kyasanur Forest Disease Virus (KFDV) is now prevalent in Karnataka and its neighboring states along the Western Ghats region of India. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis for providing a comprehensive estimate of the overall prevalence of KFD in India. We also characterized its implications in terms of reservoir, vector and case fatality rates. Additionally, occupational and exposure hazards, co-morbidities/co-infections and clinical manifestations observed in KFD positive populations were also studied. The study outcome suggests that early detection and prompt response to KFD outbreaks will aid in its effective management and control.