KFD is transmitted by?

Appeared in: NHM UP Staff Nurse - 2017

Explanation

Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) is a zoonotic viral disease caused by the KFD virus, which belongs to the Flaviviridae family.
The primary mode of transmission to humans is through the bite of an infected hard tick, specifically of the genus Haemaphysalis (e.g., H. spinigera).
The transmission cycle involves ticks as vectors and small mammals (like rodents) and monkeys as hosts.
Human infection is incidental and occurs when people venture into forest areas within the endemic zones.

Option A: Monkeys are amplifying hosts for the KFD virus, not the primary vector for transmission to humans via a bite. The disease is called 'Monkey Fever' because it causes high mortality in monkeys, which often heralds an outbreak.
Option C: Sand fleas (or sandflies) are vectors for different diseases, most notably Leishmaniasis and Sandfly fever.
Option D: Mosquitoes are well-known vectors for numerous viral diseases, but KFD is not one of them. KFD is a tick-borne flavivirus.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Transmission route of Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
Nurses must be aware of the geographical distribution of KFD (endemic to Karnataka) to consider it in the differential diagnosis for patients from that region presenting with fever and hemorrhagic symptoms.
Patient education is a key nursing role, involving advising individuals living in or visiting endemic areas on preventive measures like using tick repellents (DEET), wearing protective clothing, and performing regular tick checks.
Community health nurses should recognize that reports of unusual monkey deaths in the region can be an early warning sign of KFD activity, prompting public health alerts and enhanced surveillance.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key term in the question: 'KFD' (Kyasanur Forest Disease).
This is a factual recall question about the mode of transmission of a specific infectious disease.
Recall or deduce the classification of KFD. The name 'Forest Disease' and its common name 'Monkey Fever' suggest a zoonotic origin.
Evaluate each option. 'Monkey' is a host, not a vector. 'Mosquito' and 'Sand flea' are vectors for other common diseases.
Recognize that KFD is a well-known tick-borne illness in India. Therefore, 'Tick bites' is the most specific and correct vector for transmission.

Concept Tested & Keywords

QTavi-BB7SUDl0LnGF_Snp

E6 Parks TextBook of Preventive & Social Medicine part 1 — Subpart B (pp 202-403 of 604) p. 151-153

Practise the full NHM UP Staff Nurse - 2017

Attempt every question from this paper in a timed mock, then review the full solution for each one.