Japanese Encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis is an acute virus disease. The disease is transmitted by the bite of the mosquito. It is the leading cause of viral encephalitis in Asia with 30—50,000 cases reported annually.
Occurrence: Epidemics occur in:
- China
- South East Asia
- Indonesia
- Nepal
- India
- Sri Lanka
Manifestations: There is normally an incubation period of approx. 5 to 15 day’s after which the following symptoms occurs:
Mild infections occur without apparent symptoms other than
- Fever
- Headache
More severe infection is marked by:
- Quick onset
- Headache
- High fever
- Neck stiffness
- Stupor
- Disorientation
- Coma
- Tremors
- Convulsions (especially in infants)
- Spastic paralysis
- Death in more than 10 % and serious neurologic sequels in 30%
Diagnosis and treatment: Diagnosis is verified by testing for the virus by a blood test. Treatment is not available.
Vaccine: A vaccine is available but should only be used by those genuinely at risk of contracting the disease. A course of 3 injections over 30 days or 2 injections at a 7 day interval. Either course should be completed 10 days before travel in case of any adverse reactions to the vaccine.
Prevent Japanese encephalitis by:
- Vaccination
- Avoid mosquito bites by remaining in well screened areas
- Avoid mosquito bites by remaining in air-conditioned areas.
- Use mosquito repellents on skin and clothing
- Bring aerosol insecticides to use indoors
- Use bed nets.
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