Dimapur, Chümoukedima, and Niuland report 7 cases of Japanese Encephalitis; 2 deaths

DIMAPUR — A total of seven cases of Japanese Encephalitis (JE) have been reported so far this year from Dimapur, Chümoukedima, and Niuland districts, with two of the cases resulting in death. The deceased were reportedly in their 30s and 40s.

Speaking to Eastern Mirror, District Vector Borne Disease Consultant (DVBDC) Dimapur, Peter Sangtam, informed that two JE cases were reported in June, followed by five more in July.

The cases were reported from Police colony, Oriental colony, Kuda village, Lengrijan, Tenyiphe III, Kuhuboto town, and Dhansiripar block.

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As of now, only one patient has been discharged, while four others remain under treatment in hospital.

Sangtam also informed that only two cases of dengue have been reported so far this year from the three districts—one each from Diphupar A and Chümoukedima town.

He urged the public to take proactive steps to prevent Japanese Encephalitis, a mosquito-borne viral infection that can lead to severe neurological complications and even death, especially among children and unvaccinated individuals.

He explained that the virus is primarily transmitted by Culex mosquitoes, which breed in stagnant water, paddy fields, and areas near pig farms. Pigs are considered amplifying hosts for the virus.

To reduce the risk, Sangtam advised the use of mosquito nets, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and maintaining cleanliness in and around homes.

He highlighted the importance of eliminating stagnant water, regularly cleaning and covering water storage containers, and ensuring unused items like tyres and flower pots do not collect water.

He also urged citizens to report suspected JE symptoms—such as fever accompanied by neck stiffness, confusion, or seizures—to the nearest health facility without delay.

Sangtam further called for public cooperation with health officials during fogging, vaccination, and surveillance drives, and cautioned against hindering these efforts.

He also discouraged reliance solely on traditional remedies and encouraged timely medical consultation, particularly in cases of prolonged fever among children.