Student dies of scrub typhus

TRICHY: A college student hailing from Alangudi of Pudukottai district reportedly died due to scrub typhus – a flu that catches after suffering bites from itch mites, found predominantly near forest areas.
The deceased, identified as M Amudha, 21, hailing from Aranmanai thoppu of Keeramangalam in Pudukottai was pursuing her post-graduation in Alagappa University.
Amudha was admitted to a private hospital in Keeramangalam with high fever. Since there was no progress in her health condition, she was referred to a private hospital in Trichy.
According to officials from the office of the deputy director of health services, Pudukottai, doctors in the private hospital identified itch mite bites on Amudha’s body. But before they could treat her she died due to multiple organ failure.
Doctors said that she could have been saved if her parents or the victim had informed doctors about the itch mite bites instead of taking normal treatment for fever.
Itch mites are found mostly near forest areas. Though not all the itch mite bites could be fatal, delay in getting proper treatment may have resulted in her death. However, we are inquiring about her medical history, if any, doctors added.