Scrub typhus in Northeast India: epidemiology, clinical presentations, and diagnostic approaches

Abstract

Scrub typhus is one of the most neglected tropical diseases, a leading cause of acute undifferentiated febrile illness in areas of the ‘tsutsugamushi triangle’, diagnosed frequently in South Asian countries. The bacteria Orientia tsutsugamushi is the causative agent of the disease, which enters the human body through the bite of trombiculid mites (also known as chiggers) of the genus Leptotrombidium deliense. Diagnosis of the disease is challenging, as its early symptoms mimic other febrile illnesses like dengue, influenza and corona viruses. Lack of rapid, reliable and cost-effective diagnostic methods further complicates the identification process. Northeast India, a mountainous region with a predominantly rural tribal population, has witnessed a resurgence of scrub typhus cases in recent years. Various ecological factors, including rodent populations, habitat characteristics and climatic conditions, influence its prevalence. Entomological investigations have confirmed the abundance of vector mites, highlighting the importance of understanding their distribution and the probability of transmission of scrub typhus in the region. Proper diagnosis, awareness campaigns and behavioural interventions are essential for controlling scrub typhus outbreaks and reducing its impact on public health in Northeast India. Further research and community-based studies are necessary to accurately assess the disease burden and implement effective prevention strategies.