A 4-year-old boy, from Pune, has been diagnosed with Japanese Encephalitis (JE) and is currently undergoing rehabilitation. The disease is spread by mosquitos and, in rare circumstances, can result in lasting neurologic or mental problems. In the first week of November, the youngster was admitted to Sassoon Hospital with symptoms such as fever, seizures, and altered nervous system. He was placed on ventilator support for nine days. He reportedly received therapy for 18 days before being transferred to a ward and is presently in the rehabilitation phase. Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), which is carried by mosquitos, is a Flavia virus related to dengue, yellow fever, and West Nile viruses, according to WHO. Although symptomatic Japanese encephalitis (JE) is uncommon, the case-fatality rate among encephalitis patients can reach 30%. Permanent neurologic or psychological consequences can occur in 30%-50% of persons with encephalitis. Japanese encephalitis is similar to any other viral infection, except it has an extremely high death rate.
What exactly is Japanese Encephalitis, and why is it so dangerous?
Virus of Japanese encephalitis In Asia, JEV is the most common cause of viral encephalitis. It is a Flavia virus transmitted by mosquitos and belongs to the same genus as dengue, yellow fever, and West Nile viruses.
In Japan, the first instance of Japanese encephalitis viral illness (JE) was described in 1871.
The annual incidence of clinical disease varies per endemic country, ranging from 1 to >10 per 100 000 population or greater during outbreaks. According to a literature study, over 68 000 clinical cases of JE occur globally each year, with 13 600 to 20 400 deaths. Children are particularly affected by JE. Most adults in endemic nations have developed natural immunity following childhood infection, however people of any age can be afflicted. "Japanese Encephalitis has been discovered to be a source of concern throughout the country." Japanese encephalitis is similar to any other viral infection, except it has an extremely high mortality rate. Japanese encephalitis is once again induced by a mosquito bite. As a result, protection against mosquito bites remains the gold standard in the case of dengue. The symptoms are usually modest, although it can occasionally produce serious neurological issues. It causes fever-like symptoms, as well as seizures, coma, paralytic episodes, behavioral problems, and psychological disorders. In a telephonic interview with HT Digital, Dr Ravindra Gupta, Dept of Internal Medicine at the CK Hospital, Guru gram, says, "When a person develops Japanese Encephalitis of brain fever, the death rate is as high as 30%, and those who recover, 30% to 50% of them are left with some permanent brain or psychiatric abnormalities throughout life."
Is Japanese Encephalitis treatable?
"Unfortunately, no specific treatment, antiviral medication, or antibiotic exists for the condition." "The treatment is entirely symptomatic and is dependent on the patients' ability to recover on their own," explains Dr. Gupta.
Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine
Japanese Encephalitis can be avoided by receiving two doses of the JE vaccination. This is suggested for use in places where Japanese Encephalitis is endemic and widespread.
"Two vaccine doses should be given 28 days apart. If rapid immunization is desired, it can be given even after 7 days following the first dosage to both the old and the young. Vaccination helps to prevent significant sequela and should always be used to prevent serious instances of Japanese Encephalitis. The primary stay is still prevention. To avoid mosquito bites, use mosquito nets, repellents, clothing that covers the entire arm, and socks "Dr. Gupta says
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