Epidemiology of Japanese Encephalitis in Nepal

Sd Pant

doi:10.3126/jnps.v29i1.1600

Abstract

doi:10.3126/jnps.v29i1.1600J. Nepal Paediatr. Soc. Vol.29(1) p.35-37

Highlights

Japanese Encephalitis is acute encephalitis that can progress to paralysis, seizures, coma and death
The Japanese encephalitis virus is a member from the family Flaviviridae.[2]
Culex tritaeniorhynchus is active during dusk and dawn and it is during this part of the day that it bites and infects individuals with Japanese Encephalitis

Summary

Introduction

Japanese Encephalitis is acute encephalitis that can progress to paralysis, seizures, coma and death. The natural host of the Japanese encephalitis virus is bird, not human, and the virus will never be completely eliminated.[3] One of the most important vectors of this disease is the mosquito Culex tritaeniorhynchus (Picture 1) and Culex gelidus. 1777 cases of Japanese Encephalitis has been serologically confirmed in Nepal from 2004-2007. It is important to remember that Japanese Encephalitis is an under reported disease. Japanese Encephalitis has been confirmed in all age groups in Nepal. Japanese Encephalitis has been reported from all eco-regions of the country. More cases are being reported from Hilly districts of Nepal from 2004. Occurrence of Japanese Encephalitis has been confirmed in 54 districts of the country.

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Findings

Summary