Amid rising concerns over scrub typhus, Andhra Pradesh has initiated Whole Genome Sequencing (WGS) to determine the exact cause of nine suspected deaths linked to the disease. Commissioner (Family Welfare, Medical & Health) G. Veerapandian announced the decision on Monday, emphasizing the need for scientific clarity.
State Activates Multiple Genome Sequencing Labs
Veerapandian stated that the government will activate genome sequencing laboratories at Siddhartha Medical College (Vijayawada) and Government General Hospital (Guntur). Additionally, the state will collaborate with AIIMS Mangalagiri, CMC Vellore, and a private research laboratory in Bengaluru. This multi-institution effort aims to investigate whether increased bacterial virulence contributed to the fatalities.
First Suspected Deaths Reported After Three Years
During a press briefing, Veerapandian highlighted that Andhra Pradesh recorded nine suspected scrub typhus-related deaths this year—its first reported mortalities after three consecutive years with zero deaths. To enhance surveillance, the state has activated 24 laboratories and made 1,562 ELISA kits and 1,662 rapid test kits available across healthcare centres. He urged the public to get tested promptly at government health facilities.
Continuous Coordination With National and Global Health Experts
The commissioner added that the state has been in active discussions with medical experts from the World Health Organization (WHO) and national health authorities. These consultations aim to ensure that the state follows the best practices in disease monitoring and management.
Scrub Typhus Not New or Unusual in the State
Clarifying misconceptions, Veerapandian stressed that scrub typhus is neither new nor mysterious. He explained that the disease commonly appears after the monsoon season due to increased human exposure to vegetation and chigger mites in rural areas. According to the IDSP-IHIP portal, he noted, the number of cases reported this year aligns with seasonal patterns and shows no abnormal surge.
Case Trends in Andhra Pradesh and Neighbouring States
As reported by TOI, Sharing data, Veerapandian reported that Andhra Pradesh recorded 1,613 scrub typhus positive cases in 2024, while 1,566 cases have been confirmed so far this year. He also compared the disease pattern with neighbouring states. Karnataka registered 1,689 cases in 2024 and 1,870 cases this year. Tamil Nadu reported significantly higher numbers—6,925 cases in 2024 and 7,308 this year. Meanwhile, Telangana documented 187 cases in 2024 and 309 cases this year.
Genome Sequencing Results Expected in Three Months
Medical experts estimate that the Whole Genome Sequencing of the samples from the deceased patients will take three months. The analysis is expected to provide crucial insights into the cause of death. These findings are expected to offer crucial insights into the cause of the suspected scrub typhus deaths and guide future public health measures.