Entomological Survey of Vectors of Scrub Typhus in Haulawng, Lunglei District, Mizoram, India

Abstract

A study on the vector prevalence of Scrub typhus was undertaken in the Scrub typhus affected areas in Lunglei district, Mizoram. Rodents were trapped using live traps and examined for ectoparasites and serological test for scrub typhus antibodies was also done. Results on the vectors of the Scrub typhus revealed the presence of the vector mite Leptotrombidium deliense on the rats in 3 localities of Haulawng village. Chigger index was found to be 12.33, which is above the critical index of 0.69 per rodent. Chigger infestation rate was 18.5. The chigger infestation was found mainly on Rattus rattus. Detection of Orientia (Scrub typhus) 1:20 and 1:80 has been calculated by Weil Felix OXK antigen. Observation of the vector of Scrub typhus warrants regular surveillance in these areas to prevent any impending outbreak.