According to the health department, a total of 295 cases of the scrub typhus infection have been confirmed in Odisha. Other states like Himachal Pradesh and Rajasthan have also witnessed a rise in cases
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Cases of scrub typhus have also been reported in rural areas of Indonesia, China, Japan and northern Australia
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Here is everything you need to know about the disease
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According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC), scrub typhus is a disease caused by Orientia Tsutsugamushi bacteria, also known as bush typhus
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The scrub typhus infection spreads to people through bites of infected larval mites
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Symptoms
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The scrub typhus infection causes fever, chills, headache, body aches, rashes and muscle pain. The symptoms usually begin within 10 days of being bitten
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A dark scab-like wound can appear at the site of larval bite. According to the CDC, a person can also experience brain inflammation, respiratory diseases and multi-organ failure if not treated
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Prevention
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So far, there is no vaccine available to prevent this disease. However one needs to avoid areas with rich vegetation where these larval mites may be found
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Children and adults should cover their body parts properly. Follow a proper hygiene and use mosquito nets at home to avoid larval bites
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If you have been bit by an insect and facing similar symptoms, then immediately rush to the hospital and follow the necessary steps in consultation with your doctor