In Kyasanur Forest Disease, transmission to humans occurs through the bite of a specific developmental stage of the tick Haemaphysalis spinigera. Which stage of this tick is primarily responsible for human infection?

• A Nymph ✓
• B Larva
• C Adult male
• D Engorged adult female

Explanation

The larva of Haemaphysalis spinigera feeds mainly on small animals such as rodents and birds and becomes infected there. It is the unfed nymph that attacks humans passing through the forest floor, and this stage transmits the virus to man. Adults prefer larger hosts such as cattle and rarely bite people. This stage-specific behaviour explains why KFD cases cluster among people entering forests during the dry season when nymphs are actively questing, and it informs advice on protective clothing and repellents.

Reference: Park's Textbook of Preventive and Social Medicine, 27th ed.

High-yield for: NEET PGINI-CETNExTFMGEUSMLEPLABMRCP

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