All of the following are true for Kyasanur Forest Disease except: March 2012
**Question:** All of the following are true for Kyasanur Forest Disease except: March 2012
A. It is caused by the Kyasanur Forest Disease virus (KFDV).
B. It was first identified in 1957.
C. The incubation period is around 3-6 days.
D. KFDV is specific to humans.
**Core Concept:**
Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) is a viral hemorrhagic fever endemic to the Kyasanur Forest in India. It is caused by the Kyasanur Forest Disease virus (KFDV), which belongs to the Orthobunyavirus genus within the Bunyaviridae family. This virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of infected ticks, particularly the tick species Hyalomma anatolicum anatolicum. The virus was first identified in 1957.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right:**
KFDV is known to affect a variety of mammals, including humans, but is not specific to humans only. While the disease is endemic to the Kyasanur Forest, it is transmitted to humans through tick bites, not directly from human to human. Therefore, option D is incorrect because KFDV is not exclusive to humans.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect:**
A. While KFDV is indeed the causative agent of Kyasanur Forest Disease, the statement describing the disease as "March 2012" is incorrect. The disease has been reported sporadically, but it is not specific to a single year or month.
B. Although the disease was first identified in 1957, the statement "March 2012" is incorrect, making this option also incorrect.
C. While the incubation period for KFDV infection is typically between 3 and 6 days, the statement "March 2012" is irrelevant and makes this option incorrect.
**Clinical Pearl:**
In the context of medical education, it is essential to understand the mode of transmission and the fact that KFDV is not specific to humans. This knowledge is crucial for healthcare professionals to identify potential cases, provide appropriate diagnosis, and implement preventive measures to control the spread of the disease.