‘Steps initiated to prevent spread of Japanese Encephalitis’
SHILLONG: Joint Director of Health Services, Meghalaya, Dr. R.O. Budnah on Tuesday informed that altogether 23 suspected cases of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) were reported in the State of which seven cases of Japanese Encephalitis have been confirmed.
Dr. Budnah said that three positive cases have been reported from Ri-Bhoi, two from East Khasi Hills while one case each has been reported from West Khasi Hills and Jaintia Hills. Patients who have tested positive were undergoing treatment at NEIGRIHMS and Civil Hospital, Shillong.
There have been no reports of any death from Japanese Encephalitis (JE) in the State so far, he added.
It may be mentioned that JE is caused by a virus and it is transmitted by culex mosquitoes and the transmission of the disease is maintained by egrets most of which are migratory and by pigs which are the amplifier host.
According to Dr. Budnah, JE outbreak occurs in areas where there is a close interaction between these animals and human beings. Human beings are accidental hosts and do not play any role in JE virus transmission.
He said that children below 15 years of age are mostly affected by JE which is common between the monsoon and the post monsoon period when the density of mosquitoes increases.
Signs and symptoms of JE include fever, headache and altered sensorium, he added.
Dr. Budnah also informed that publicity and awareness programmes at all levels especially in vulnerable areas were being taken up for the benefit of the public and the State Government has taken
appropriate steps to procure JE test kits from National Institute of Virology, Pune.
Similarly, all health institutions including private hospitals in the State have been alerted and immediate necessary intervention has been taken up where suspected cases have been reported and confirmed.
Meanwhile, Chief Secretary P.B.O. Warjri held a meeting with officials of the Health Department on Tuesday to discuss the issue of Japanese Encephalitis in the State.