Outbreak of Scrub Typhus in Jammu - A Report.

BACKGROUND

Jammu is scrub typhus prone. Scrub typhus is often seen when troops move out of permanent locations.

METHODS

In a prospective study cases of fever reporting to the local military hospital from July to October 2002 were examined clinically, investigated and categorised as scrub typhus when Weil Felix readings were above 1:160.

RESULTS

Twelve cases of scrub typhus were diagnosed during the period of study. The clinical features included fever, malaise and conjunctival congestion. However rashes were rare and only one had an eschar. Multisystem complications occurred in one patient. There was a spatial and temporal clustering of cases. Control of outbreak was carried out by 25% benzyl benzoate impregnation of clothing, clearing of scrub, residual spray with malathion and antirodent measures.

CONCLUSIONS

Scrub typhus outbreaks have been noted whenever troops move out of permanent locations to scrub areas.