Andhra Pradesh Woman Dies of Suspected Scrub Typhus, 1,317 Cases Reported, Officials Calm Fears

A woman from Mettapalli village in Cheepurupalli mandal died at a private hospital in Vizianagaram with symptoms consistent with scrub typhus, prompting renewed attention on the infection that spreads through the bite of infected larval mites. Health authorities have assured that the situation remains under control despite rising public concern.

Officials Say Diagnosis Not Confirmed

Health Commissioner G Veerapandian said the Rapid Diagnostic Kit used in the hospital cannot confirm scrub typhus as the cause of death because the more definitive ELISA test was not conducted. He added that a rapid response team has been instructed to investigate the case.

According to him, reports of a significant surge in infections are exaggerated and the overall numbers do not indicate an alarming scenario. Of the 6,778 samples tested across Andhra Pradesh this year, 1,346 were positive. The state recorded 1,613 positive cases out of 10,150 samples in 2024 and 1,295 positive cases out of 7,281 samples in 2023.

District Wise Breakdown of Cases

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

In Visakhapatnam alone, 19 of 210 samples tested in November were positive. At King George Hospital, three patients currently undergoing treatment are stable and are expected to be discharged soon, Superintendent I Vani confirmed.

Symptoms, Treatment and Rising Testing Numbers

Dr D Radhakrishnan noted that fever, body pain, rashes, a scab like lesion and swollen lymph nodes are common symptoms. He said the increase in reported infections is linked to expanded testing rather than a sudden spike in transmission. He also stressed that most patients respond well to doxycycline and that fatalities are rare. Individuals with suppressed immunity or existing health complications are more vulnerable.

Health experts emphasize that early treatment with antibiotics such as doxycycline or azithromycin for pregnant women helps prevent complications that may affect the lungs, liver, kidneys or central nervous system. Authorities continue to advise the public to avoid overgrown vegetation, use protective clothing and apply insect repellents to reduce the risk of mite bites.