Nagaland Health department urges vigilance against Japanese Encephalitis

DIMAPUR — Following detection of 9 Japanese Encephalitis (JE) cases in the state this year, the Department of Health & Family Welfare has urged the public to remain vigilant and take necessary precautions against the disease during monsoon season.

Japanese Encephalitis is a mosquito-borne viral infection that can cause inflammation of the brain, leading to serious health complications. The primary carriers are Culex mosquitoes, which breed in water bodies such as paddy fields and stagnant pools.

In a public notification, the department stated that early detection and prevention are keys to safeguarding the communities. It stated that in every symptomatic JE case, there are likely to be about 300-1000 people infected with JE virus but without any clinical manifestation.

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It informed that pigs play an important role in the JE as the virus multiplies in pigs without suffering from the disease and maintains the disease for a long time. It added that JE is not transmitted from man-to-man like malaria and other vector diseases.

It pointed out that there is no specific anti-viral medicine available against JE virus. The transmission period and incubation period of JE is 5-10 days.

The department stated that all the district health units have been instructed to intensify surveillance, fogging and community awareness activities.

People experiencing symptoms such as sudden high fever, headache, vomiting and confusion are asked to immediately report to the nearest health centre. It stated that boosting routine immunisation coverage, combined with intensive community engagement and rapid response to JE cases would help suppress the disease and reduce long-term risks.

The department has reaffirmed its unwavering commitment to preventing and controlling JE. It also appealed to the allied department, NGOs and FBOs, media, community leaders and every individual to co-ordinate and joint hands to spread awareness about preventive measures.

Do’s and Don’ts for Japanese Encephalitis

Do’s

•             Use mosquito nets while sleeping, even during the day.

•             Wear long-sleeved clothes to minimize mosquito bites.

•             Keep surroundings clean and dry; drain stagnant water in and around houses.

•             Cover water storage containers tightly.

•             Participate in vector control activities organized by local authorities.

•             Move pigs’ sties away from human habitation as they are a risk factor due to their role as amplifying hosts for JE virus.

Don’ts

•             Do not allow water to stagnate around your home (discard old tires, coconut shells, and empty containers).

•             Do not ignore high fever, neck stiffness, vomiting, fits or altered consciousness — consult a doctor immediately.

•             Do not panic if you have symptoms – consult doctor immediately.

•             Do not rear pigs in close proximity to human dwellings.

•             Do not use mosquito repellents indiscriminately — use them as directed and keep them out of children’s reach.