Kyasanur forest disease is transmitted by: September 2011
**Core Concept**
Kyasanur Forest Disease (KFD) is a viral hemorrhagic fever caused by the Kyasanur Forest Disease virus (KFDV), a tick-borne flavivirus. This disease is endemic to South Asia, particularly in the Indian state of Karnataka.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
The KFDV is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected tick, primarily the Haemaphysalis spinigera. When an infected tick feeds on an animal or human host, it can transmit the virus. This mode of transmission is similar to other tick-borne diseases such as Lyme disease and Rocky Mountain spotted fever. The virus then replicates within the host's cells, leading to symptoms like fever, headache, and hemorrhaging.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option A:** Ticks are not the primary vectors for this disease, so this option is incorrect.
**Option B:** While mosquitoes are vectors for many diseases, they are not associated with Kyasanur Forest Disease.
**Option C:** This option is also incorrect as there is no known evidence of direct person-to-person transmission of KFD.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
The KFDV is transmitted through the saliva of infected ticks during feeding, highlighting the importance of tick-borne disease prevention strategies such as tick repellents, protective clothing, and prompt removal of attached ticks.
**Correct Answer: C. Ticks.**