Japanese Encephalitis

Japanese encephalitis is an acute virus disease. The disease is transmitted by the bite of the mosquito. It is the leading cause of viral encephalitis in Asia with 30-50,000 cases reported annually.

Occurrence: Epidemics occur in:

• China
• South East Asia
• Indonesia
• Nepal
• India
• Sri Lanka

See map

Manifestations: After incubation period for usually 5 to 15 day’s symptoms occurs as:

Mild infections occur without apparent symptoms other than

• Fever
• Headache

More severe infection is marked by:

• Quick onset
• Headache
• High fever
• Neck stiffness
• Stupor
• Disorientation
• Coma
• Tremors
• Convulsions (especially in infants)
• Spastic paralysis
• Death in more than 10 % and serious neurologic sequels in 30%

Diagnose and treatment: Diagnose is verified by demonstrating of virus. Treatment is not available.

Vaccine is effective.

Prevent Japanese encephalitis by:

• Vaccination
• Avoid mosquito bites by remaining in well screened areas
• Avoid mosquito bites by remaining in air-conditioned areas.
• Use mosquito repellents on skin and clothing
• Bring aerosol insecticides to use indoors
• Use bednets.

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