KATHMANDU, Sept 14: The Epidemiology and Disease Control Division (EDCD) has reported that five more people have died of Japanese encephalitis in the country. With these additional deaths, the total number of fatalities due to the disease has reached 14.

As of Wednesday, the number of deaths was nine. The deceased include three from Kailali, two from Sunsari, two from Siraha, one from Sarlahi, and one each from Jhapa, Palpa, Chitwan, Kapilvastu, and Sindhuli.

This year, Japanese encephalitis has been confirmed in a total of 61 people, with 14 deaths. Last year, there were 107 infections and only seven deaths. The data indicates that this year’s death toll has doubled compared to last year.

Although there were more infections last year, the number of deaths was lower. However, this year, despite fewer infections, the number of deaths has increased, according to Dr Abhiyan Gautam, chief of the Child Health and Immunization Section under the Family Welfare Division. "This year, there are fewer infections compared to last year, but the number of deaths has increased," Gautam said.

Dr Gautam stated that the likelihood of death after contracting the disease can be as high as 30 percent, and this year, 23 percent of those infected have died. Most of the deceased are under the age of 15.

Dr Gautam mentioned that although the infection rate of the disease has decreased since the end of September, there are still suspected cases being treated in hospitals, and some of the deceased were undergoing treatment.

Following the high number of deaths, the Family Welfare Division has mobilized local authorities in coordination with the Provincial Health Directorate.

If Japanese encephalitis cases are found in any home or neighborhood, efforts are being made to visit the location and provide information on preventive measures. Additionally, radio message content in various languages is being produced and disseminated through local FM radios.

Additionally, collaboration with the Animal Health Division has been established to protect livestock. Dr Abhiyan Gautam advised that since treatment for the disease is often ineffective once contracted, avoiding mosquito bites remains the primary preventive measure.

Although there is a vaccine for Japanese encephalitis, it provides immunity only after one month of administration. Therefore, the vaccine given now will not be effective immediately, and the infection rate is expected to decrease from next month, making the current vaccination less relevant, according to him.

Infection occurs when bitten by mosquitoes of the ‘Culex’ species. To prevent this, measures can be taken such as filling areas around the house where water accumulates, using mosquito nets while sleeping at night, and wearing clothing that covers the entire body when near fields or livestock.

Health workers suggest that farmers who raise pigs and ducks should be especially cautious, as the disease is transmitted to humans by mosquitoes that have bitten these animals. "Currently, a significant number of those infected are involved in farming and livestock rearing," they said.

 
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