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Viral Brain Infection: Most people know about mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and malaria, but very few people are aware that some mosquitoes also spread viruses.

Symptoms of Japanese Encephalitis

Japanese Encephalitis Treatment and Diagnosis: With the arrival of monsoon, the weather becomes pleasant, but with it, the threat of mosquitoes also increases rapidly. Most people are aware of mosquito-borne diseases like dengue and malaria, but very few are aware that some mosquitoes also spread viruses that can directly affect the brain. One such serious disease is Japanese encephalitis. While this disease may not be as common as dengue, in severe cases, it can prove fatal and can also cause lifelong neurological problems to the patient.

The disease is caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus, a member of the flavivirus family, the same family as dengue and West Nile viruses. The virus is spread by the bite of infected Culex mosquitoes. These mosquitoes typically breed in paddy fields, ponds, marshy areas, and standing water after rain. Unlike the mosquitoes that spread dengue, Culex mosquitoes are most active from dusk until dawn.

How does encephalitis occur?

According to Dr. Ishank Goyal, a neurology specialist at Fortis Hospital, Mohali, the virus first enters the bloodstream and then crosses the blood-brain barrier to reach the brain. This then causes inflammation of the brain, a condition known as encephalitis in medical terms.

How many cases of this are reported every year?

According to the World Health Organization, approximately 68,000 cases of Japanese encephalitis are reported worldwide each year. Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific are the most affected regions. Cases are also reported annually in India, and children are considered most at risk. Experts say children under 15, people living in rural areas, farmers working in paddy fields, and unvaccinated travelers are at higher risk of infection.

What are its initial symptoms?

The disease may begin as a common viral infection. Initially, symptoms include fever, headache, vomiting, fatigue, and weakness. However, if the virus reaches the brain, patients may develop more serious symptoms, including high fever, confusion, loss of consciousness, seizures, stiff neck, difficulty walking, and loss of consciousness. In such cases, immediate hospitalization is essential. Doctors say that a CT scan alone cannot always diagnose the disease. If necessary, MRI and blood or cerebrospinal fluid tests are used to confirm the diagnosis.

Is there any cure for this?

There is no specific treatment for Japanese encephalitis. Treatment focuses on stabilizing the patient's condition and controlling complications. Therefore, prevention is considered the most effective approach.