What are the Symptoms of Monkey Fever?
September 27, 2023 | by Sravani Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Monkey fever, also known as Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), is a viral disease that primarily affects primates, particularly monkeys, and can occasionally spread to humans through tick bites or contact with infected animals. Symptoms of monkey fever in humans can range from mild to severe and typically manifest within 3-8 days after a tick bite. Common symptoms include:
- Fever: Sudden onset of high fever, often accompanied by chills and body aches.
- Headache: Intense headaches, which can be severe and persistent.
- Muscle and Joint Pain: Severe muscle and joint pain, often affecting the back, shoulders, and limbs.
- Fatigue: Profound fatigue and weakness.
- Nausea and Vomiting: Feeling of nausea, vomiting, and sometimes diarrhea.
- Enlarged Lymph Nodes: Swollen and tender lymph nodes, especially in the neck, armpit, or groin.
- Rash: Some patients may develop a rash, which can be maculopapular (small, raised, red bumps) or petechial (small red or purple spots).
- Abdominal Pain: Discomfort or pain in the abdomen.
- Sore Throat and Cough: Mild respiratory symptoms like sore throat and a dry cough may occur in some cases.
- Photophobia: Increased sensitivity to light, particularly in the eyes.
In severe cases, complications may develop, including:
- Hemorrhage: Bleeding tendencies, which can manifest as nosebleeds, bleeding gums, or blood in stool or urine.
- Neurological Symptoms: In rare cases, KFD can affect the nervous system, leading to symptoms such as altered mental status, confusion, disorientation, and difficulty in movement or coordination.
It’s important to note that not all individuals infected with the KFD virus will display severe symptoms. Some may experience a milder form of the disease with less pronounced symptoms, resembling a flu-like illness.
If you suspect you have been exposed to ticks in an endemic area or are experiencing symptoms consistent with monkey fever, it’s essential to seek medical attention promptly. There is no specific treatment for KFD, but supportive care, management of symptoms, and monitoring for complications are key aspects of care. Precautionary measures to avoid tick bites, such as wearing protective clothing and using insect repellents, are important for individuals residing in or traveling to areas where the disease is endemic.