Japanese encephalitis - India (07): (AS)

Date: Fri 28 Aug 2009
Source: Sindh Today [edited]
<http://www.sindhtoday.net/news/1/46310.htm>


Japanese encephalitis, a mosquitoborne disease, has killed 78 people in 8
districts of eastern Assam since April [2009] and the health department has
sounded a high alert to check its spread, an official said on Friday [28
Aug 2009]. A health department spokesperson said close to 1000 people have
been affected by the disease.

"We have alerted health officials across the state to take preventive
measures to stop Japanese encephalitis [virus] from spreading to newer
areas," Parthajyoti Gogoi, a senior health department official, said.

The disease, transmitted from pigs through mosquitoes, strikes during the
peak [mosquito] breeding period from April to September. Encephalitis
causes inflammation of the brain tissue, producing symptoms of high fever,
headache, rigidity of the neck, loss of voice, and involuntary movement of
the body.

Authorities in some areas have conducted an encephalitis immunisation
drive, besides fogging and spraying mosquito repellents to kill the
vectors. "People in Japanese encephalitis prone areas in the age group of
one to 15 should take vaccination available at all government hospitals."
Gogoi said, adding: "Prevention is the best way of dealing with Japanese
encephalitis."