Kathmandu – Experts have urged the public to remain vigilant as cases of Japanese Encephalitis are increasing in the Terai districts. This mosquito-borne disease is of a serious nature.
The disease can affect people of any age group, but according to doctors, children under the age of 15 are at higher risk. Mosquitoes become infected after biting birds such as ducks and chickens or animals like pigs, and the infection can spread to humans if bitten by these infected mosquitoes.
Japanese Encephalitis is most commonly seen between July and November, but it does not spread from person to person. Symptoms include severe headache, high fever, unconsciousness, neck stiffness, body tremors, and paralysis. Without timely treatment, the disease can be fatal. The primary way to prevent the illness is by avoiding mosquito bites.
According to Dr. Sher Bahadur Pun, an infectious disease specialist at Shukraraj Tropical and Infectious Disease Hospital, patients from Terai districts have been coming to Kathmandu for treatment. He noted that even if patients recover, the disease can affect the nervous system, potentially causing long-term disabilities.
Although the introduction of the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine in Nepal in 2005 significantly reduced infection rates, recent years have seen a resurgence. Dr. Pun emphasized that the government should be more proactive in prevention and control efforts.
