Japanese encephalitis can affect the brain
A case of Japanese encephalitis has been reported in Delhi. Following this, the MCD has alerted the health department. Officials have been asked to control mosquito-borne diseases. How is Japanese encephalitis transmitted? What are your initial symptoms? Know about this.
Experts say Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) is a flavivirus and is transmitted by mosquitoes (specifically Culex tritaenorhynchus). Around 1 lakh cases of this disease occur worldwide every year. This disease is very dangerous and the mortality rate is 30 percent. This disease affects the brain and in severe cases can also cause death. When this fever reaches the brain, it causes seizures and a lot of damage to the nerves in the brain.
How is Japanese encephalitis fever transmitted?
Dr Ajit Kumar of the Department of Medicine at Delhi’s GTB Hospital says Japanese encephalitis fever usually affects children. But cases of this disease can also occur in adults. Encephalitis is transmitted by birds and animals (pigs) that live in water. These contain the JE virus. When a mosquito bites them and then bites a person, the JE virus is transferred to them. After getting infected with this, mild fever occurs. After this, symptoms such as vomiting and seizures may also appear along with headache.
Dr. Kumar explains that if encephalitis occurs, it is a medical emergency. This requires immediate treatment. However, there is currently no antiviral treatment for this disease. Treatment is done solely based on symptoms. During this time, care is taken to ensure that this fever does not affect the brain. Because once it attacks the brain, it can be very difficult to save the patient’s life.
Is there a vaccine for encephalitis?
Dr. Ajay Kumar says there is a vaccine to prevent Japanese encephalitis. It is called the Japanese encephalitis virus vaccine. After receiving this vaccine, the risk of getting encephalitis is reduced by 80 to 90 percent. The first dose will be administered in 9 months and the second dose in 16 to 24 months. All children should receive this vaccine after birth.
How to Prevent Japanese Encephalitis Fever
If there are mosquitoes around you, protect yourself. Wear full sleeve clothing for this.
The JEV vaccine is available. Get vaccinated to prevent this.
Maintaining hygiene can prevent the spread of JEV
If you have flu-like symptoms, see a doctor.
