First Scrub Typhus Death Reported in Shimla: Health Advisory Issued

A 91-year-old man from Shimla's Panthaghati area has succumbed to scrub typhus, marking the first death from the disease in the region. Authorities urge residents to take precautions, especially while working in fields, as 44 cases have been reported so far. Scrub typhus spreads through mites and causes fever, rashes, and body aches.

A 91-year-old man from Shimla's Panthaghati area has become the first reported death from scrub typhus in the region, as confirmed by health officials on Friday.

The elderly man was undergoing treatment for scrub typhus at Indira Gandhi Medical College (IGMC) since testing positive on August 2. Scrub typhus, an infectious illness carried by mite-borne bacteria Orientia tsutsugamushi, can cause rashes, fever, headache, and body ache.

So far, 44 cases of the disease have been reported at IGMC Shimla. Following a recent diagnosis in Hamirpur, local health authorities advise residents to cover themselves while working in fields and seek medical attention if symptoms arise.

(With inputs from agencies.)