Karnataka's plans to combat the early outbreak of Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD), commonly known as monkey fever, have hit a significant roadblock. The state's eagerly awaited new vaccine against the tick-borne illness has been delayed by at least a year, pushing its availability beyond the previously assured 2026 outbreak season.
Revised Timeline and Official Statement
Health Minister Dinesh Gundu Rao delivered the update after chairing a review meeting in Bengaluru on Wednesday to assess the state's preparedness. He revealed that the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) is currently conducting clinical trials for the new vaccine formulation. "The vaccine may be made available to the public within a year," Rao stated, revising the earlier timeline.
The minister emphasized that, in the interim, the government is focusing on other medical preparations to prevent fatalities in the upcoming season. "To ensure there are no deaths this season, medicines and other medical preparations are being made in advance," he assured.
Why a New Vaccine Was Needed
The drive for a new vaccine stems from the ineffectiveness of a previously used formulation. This shortcoming prompted the ICMR to develop a new vaccine, with the Karnataka government bearing the entire cost of its development. The delay underscores the complexities involved in creating a safe and effective prophylactic against the viral disease.
Strengthening Diagnostic Infrastructure
While the vaccine development continues, the health department is not sitting idle. A major push is underway to strengthen testing and diagnostic capabilities in the affected regions.
A new KFD laboratory is being established in Sirsi, Uttara Kannada district. This facility aims to handle the increasing volume of samples and ensure faster diagnosis, which is critical for timely treatment and containment. "A laboratory is already functioning in Shivamogga, but following demands from Uttara Kannada, equipment has been procured to set up a new facility there," Minister Rao explained.
Looking Ahead: Implications and Preparedness
The one-year delay means that public health authorities will have to rely on intensified surveillance, early diagnosis, and symptomatic treatment for at least another outbreak cycle. The focus will remain on preventive measures in the endemic zones of the Western Ghats, including public awareness about avoiding tick bites.
The state's strategy now hinges on a two-pronged approach: accelerating the rollout of diagnostic infrastructure like the Sirsi lab while patiently awaiting the successful completion of the ICMR's clinical trials for the much-needed new vaccine against monkey fever.
