An isolated case of Japanese Encephalitis (JE) has been reported in the national capital, official sources revealed on Thursday. Authorities have implemented public health measures in line with the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) guidelines to address the situation, assuring citizens there is no reason for concern.
Details of the Case
The case involves a 72-year-old resident of West Delhi who was admitted to the All India Institute of Medical Sciences (AIIMS) on November 3 due to chest pain. The patient, who also had pre-existing conditions such as diabetes, coronary artery disease, and lower limb weakness, tested positive for Japanese Encephalitis after a blood sample was collected on November 6. He was discharged on November 15 after receiving treatment.
Authorities clarified that Delhi has not experienced any outbreaks of Japanese Encephalitis, and cases reported in the past have generally been isolated incidents from neighboring states.
National Statistics and Vaccination Efforts
India had registered 1,548 JE cases during 2024 across 24 states and Union Territories, of whom 925 were from Assam. For the last two years of the decade, in addition to two doses of JE vaccine against the disease in children since 2013, the Universal Immunisation Programme also includes introduction of the adult JE vaccine in some high-burden states. Understanding Japanese Encephalitis
Japanese Encephalitis is caused by a virus, primarily transferred to humans through bites of infected Culex mosquitoes, which are mainly Culex tritaeniorhynchus. These mosquitoes generally pick up the virus from waterfowl and then multiply it in pigs before transmitting it to humans.
While most infected individuals experience no symptoms or mild illness, a small percentage develop severe neurological complications, including inflammation of the brain (encephalitis). Symptoms may include fever, headache, disorientation, seizures, and weakness. Among those who develop encephalitis, the fatality rate is approximately 20–30%.
Prevention and Public Health Advice
There is no specific treatment for Japanese Encephalitis, and the virus does not spread from person to person. Preventive measures focus on avoiding mosquito bites and vaccination for individuals in high-risk areas. Travelers to Asia are advised to assess their risk based on destination, duration, season, and planned activities.
Authorities reiterated that robust public health interventions are in place and urged citizens to remain vigilant but not alarmed.