Shimla, Sept. 3 -- Twenty-four confirmed cases of scrub typhus have been reported in the Shimla district this monsoon season," said Dr Yash Pal Ranta, the chief medical officer (CMO) of Shimla. He advised the public to remain vigilant against the disease during the ongoing monsoon.

Scrub typhus is transmitted through the bite of infected larval mites, commonly found in areas with bushes, grass, fields and dense vegetation. Common symptoms include fever, severe headache, body aches, chills, weakness, rash and swollen lymph nodes. A dark scab-like lesion known as an eschar may also be present in some cases.

The public is advised to avoid sitting or lying directly on grass or bare ground, wear full-sleeved clothes, long trousers and covere...