Assam has been recording a surge in vector-borne diseases like dengue, yellow fever, and Japanese Encephalitis. The World Health Organisation defines Japanese Encephalitis as a virus related to dengue, yellow fever and West Nile Viruses, which are spread by mosquitoes. During the summer and rainy seasons in Assam, the diseases caused by mosquito bites often witness a hike, especially Japanese Encephalitis. Senior physician Diganta Burman claims that this disease can lead to brain infection.
Symptoms
The primary symptoms of this disease are fever and headache. These symptoms can last for 1-6 days. As the disease progresses, other symptoms such as neck rigidity, loss of appetite and weight loss (cachexia) can be seen. It can also lead to mental retardation, which can result in a coma. According to the Centers For Disease Control And Prevention (CDC), a US Government website, about 1 in 4 patients who develop encephalitis die.
Causes
This virus is transmitted to humans through the bites of infected Culex species mosquitoes, particularly Culex tritaeniorhynchus. These mosquitoes are often found in the environment containing wading birds and pigs. Not all mosquitoes contain this virus, but the ones who feed on other infected animals. It is not transmitted from person to person. It can be transmitted through blood fusion as well.
Prevention
You can get the Japanese encephalitis vaccine to protect yourself from this deadly virus. You should consult your doctor in this regard. The vaccine is officially given in every government hospital to children from 9 months of age to adults. You can prevent this disease by not allowing water to accumulate in various waste containers. Mosquito breeding areas should be cleaned to reduce mosquito populations and beware of pig farms. You can use insect repellent, wear long-sleeved shirts and pants, choose lodging with air conditioning, screens on windows and doors, or use a mosquito net if you sleep outdoors.
Taking the cases in Assam and other countries into consideration, you must never carelessly take fever lightly and should visit the nearest hospital for medical advice. The Japanese encephalitis vaccine is available free of cost in all government hospitals.
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