Outbreak of Scrub Typhus in Jammu - A Report.

BACKGROUND: Jammu is scrub typhus prone. Scrub typhus is often seen when troops move out of permanent locations. METHODS: In a prospective study cases of fever reporting to the local military hospital from July to October 2002 were examined clinically, investigated and categorised as scrub typhus when Weil Felix readings were above 1:160. RESULTS: Twelve cases of scrub typhus were diagnosed during the period of study. The clinical features included fever, malaise and conjunctival congestion. However rashes were rare and only one had an eschar. Multisystem complications occurred in one patient. There was a spatial and temporal clustering of cases. Control of outbreak was carried out by 25% benzyl benzoate impregnation of clothing, clearing of scrub, residual spray with malathion and antirodent measures. CONCLUSION: Scrub typhus outbreaks have been noted whenever troops move out of permanent locations to scrub areas.

Profile of tuberculosis--an Army experience.

With the advent of HIV infection an increased awareness has arisen on its effect on the incidence of various diseases. In the Indian context an increased incidence of Tuberculosis has been expected. The Army is a controlled relatively healthy constituent of the general population. It hence provides an ideal sample for gauging any dramatic change in incidence. The present paper covers the secular trend of the disease from the days of independence and highlights the differing rates in the stratum of society within the Army. With increased awareness and improvement in diagnostic facilities an increased incidence of the disease has been noticed. However a prospective study to further study various features of the disease as well its correlation if any with HIV is necessary. The paper also touches upon manpower wastage and age profile of Tuberculosis in the Army, which is an important concern to them.

Knowledge, attitude and beliefs about measles and vaccination coverage in a rural area.

In the present study an attempt was made to collect data on the attitude, belief and customs of mothers regarding occurrence of measles among children in a rural area in Jammu region. Their views on the various aspects of the disease have been highlighted in this article. Simultaneously an effort was also made to evaluate the vaccination coverage of measles vaccine in the study area 2 1/2 years after its introduction into the Universal Immunization Programme (UIP). This study brings out the scope of health education in the eventual goal of eradicating measles in the country.