Japanese encephalitis spreads rapidly in Terai districts, 3 dead, 33 infected

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is spreading quickly in the Terai region, with 3 deaths and 33 confirmed cases so far, according to the Family Welfare Division. Last year, 25 out of 86 infected people died from the disease. This year, the most affected provinces are Madhesh, Koshi, and Lumbini.

Infections have been reported in Bardiya, Kawasoti, Ratnanagar, Thori, Hariban, Lahan, Bhadrapur, Urlabari, and Gaurigunj. Among the infected, 20 are women and 13 are men. The victims include a 17-year-old from Morang, a 49-year-old from Khanipokhari, and a 74-year-old from Nawalparasi. Health officials say most cases are found in communities without vaccination.

So far, 686 people have been tested this year, with 33 positive cases — 10 in Madhes, 9 in Koshi, 9 in Lumbini, 4 in Bagmati, and 1 in Gandaki. JE is more common in areas with rice farming and where pigs or ducks are raised.

The disease is caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus, spread by Culex mosquitoes, which get infected by biting infected birds or pigs and then transmit it to humans. Symptoms can appear 4 to 14 days after infection and include high fever, stiff neck, headache, confusion, inability to speak, muscle weakness, and even paralysis.

There is no specific cure for JE — treatment focuses on managing symptoms. People with strong immunity often recover, but those with weak immunity, such as HIV patients or diabetics, face a higher risk of death.

The best prevention is vaccination, given to children over 12 months. Other precautions include wearing long-sleeved clothes, using mosquito nets or repellents, keeping surroundings clean, preventing stagnant water, and keeping animal sheds away from living areas.

Cases peak during the monsoon months of July to September due to more mosquitoes from high humidity and floods, but decline in winter.