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News18
4 days ago
- Health
- News18
Two persons die of Japanese Encephalitis in Nagaland
Dimapur, Jul 18 (PTI) Two persons have died of Japanese Encephalitis (JE) in Nagaland, a health department official said on Friday. Chief Medical Officer, Dimapur, Dr Yartenla Jamir, said that of the seven JE cases detected in Dimapur, Chumoukedima, and Niuland districts, two persons have died so far. She expressed concern over the rise in Japanese encephalitis (JE) cases in the three districts, especially during the monsoon season, which increases the risk of transmission. The Health department has urged district administrations to issue a public advisory on JE prevention measures and to initiate a community awareness campaign. The Health department said that Japanese Encephalitis is a potentially severe viral infection transmitted by Culex mosquitoes, which breed in stagnant water sources like paddy fields and ponds. The disease can cause brain inflammation and lead to serious complications or death. 'For every symptomatic JE case, there are likely 300 to 1,000 asymptomatic infections," the department noted, underlining the importance of early detection and preventive action. Pigs, which act as amplifying hosts, play a key role in the transmission cycle. The virus, however, is not spread from person to person, the department said. 'There is no specific antiviral treatment for JE; medical care is focused on managing symptoms. The typical incubation period is 5-10 days," it said. PTI CORR NBS NBS RG view comments First Published: July 18, 2025, 20:15 IST Disclaimer: Comments reflect users' views, not News18's. Please keep discussions respectful and constructive. Abusive, defamatory, or illegal comments will be removed. News18 may disable any comment at its discretion. By posting, you agree to our Terms of Use and Privacy Policy.
Time of India
14-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
Assam reports 12 new JE deaths, toll rises to 26
1 2 Guwahati: Assam has reported 12 more Japanese encephalitis (JE) deaths in the past week, increasing the state's total fatalities from the disease this year to 26, the state health department said. The virus has now spread to 33 of 35 districts, with only Dima Hasao and Hailakandi remaining unaffected. On Monday, two new deaths were confirmed, one each from Karbi Anglong and Udalguri districts. The state also recorded 22 new JE cases on Monday, raising the total number of cases this year to 274. The majority of these cases have emerged in the last two months, coinciding with the onset of the rainy season. Barpeta district has reported the highest number of JE deaths, with three fatalities, followed by Bajali, Darrang, Kamrup, Karbi Anglong, Udalguri, and Tinsukia, each with two deaths. Other districts, including Biswanath, Bongaigaon, Dhemaji, Dhubri, Goalpara, Golaghat, Jorhat, Lakhimpur, Majuli, Nagaon, and Sonitpur, have each reported one death. The number of confirmed JE cases has surged from 215 last Tuesday to 274, with Karbi Anglong leading the tally with 20 cases. Nalbari and Golaghat districts have each reported 19 cases, while Darrang has 18. Kamrup and Nagaon have each documented 17 cases, and several other districts have reported 10 or more cases. State health officials have expressed concern over the rising number of cases and fatalities. "Both the increase in JE cases and fatalities is a concern," a senior health department official said. The department has urged residents to remain vigilant, as the peak transmission period for JE typically occurs in July and August. JE is primarily transmitted to humans through bites from infected Culex mosquitoes, particularly Culex tritaeniorhynchus, and is often associated with pig settlements and birds near paddy fields. The state health department continues to monitor the situation closely and is advising the public to take preventive measures to curb the spread of the virus.
Time of India
14-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
West Nile virus found in Fulton County: How it spreads and who is at risk
West Nile virus (WNV) is spreading through mosquitoes in Fulton County, Georgia. Two mosquito traps – in Hapeville and northwest Atlanta – in Fulton County tested positive for the West Nile virus, according to the Fulton County Board of Health. The virus is primarily transmitted to humans through the bite of infected mosquitoes, which acquire the virus by feeding on infected birds. With no vaccine or targeted antiviral treatment available for humans, prevention and awareness are the primary defenses. While most people don't experience severe symptoms, those over 50 and individuals with weakened immune systems are at higher risk for complications like encephalitis or meningitis. Let's delve into the science behind WNV transmission, its impact, and how individuals can stay vigilant and safe. What is West Nile Virus? West Nile virus is a single-stranded RNA virus that causes West Nile fever. It is a member of the family Flaviviridae, from the genus Flavivirus, which also contains the Zika virus, dengue virus, and yellow fever virus. The virus is primarily transmitted by mosquitoes, mostly species of Culex. Why the name? The virus was initially identified in the West Nile district of Uganda in 1937. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like The Most Beautiful Women In The World Undo It has since spread globally, including Africa, Europe, the Middle East, Asia, Australia, and North America. How does WNV spread? West Nile virus (WNV) is primarily spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes become infected when they feed on birds that carry the virus. Humans, horses, and other mammals can then contract WNV from the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes, particularly certain species of Culex mosquitoes, are the main vectors for WNV. They become infected when they bite birds that carry the virus. Birds, especially certain species like crows and jays, are considered amplifying hosts, meaning they can carry high levels of the virus in their blood, making them efficient transmitters to mosquitoes. When an infected female mosquito bites a human or other mammal, it injects saliva, which can contain the virus, into the bloodstream. While mosquito bites are the primary route, WNV can also be transmitted through blood transfusions and organ transplants, as well as from mother to child during pregnancy, delivery, or breastfeeding. There have also been rare cases of transmission in laboratory settings and through oral-fecal routes in alligators and crocodiles. However, West Nile virus is not spread through casual contact with infected individuals or through the air. Moreover, mammals like humans are "dead‑end hosts" because they typically don't carry enough virus in their blood to facilitate further mosquito infection. Peak transmission occurs between July and October, a period marked by warm, humid weather that favors mosquito breeding and bird activity. Who are at risk? Although most people infected with West Nile virus remain asymptomatic (~80%), around 20% experience West Nile fever – flu‑like symptoms including fever, headache, fatigue, and sometimes rash. Less than 1% develop neuroinvasive disease (meningitis or encephalitis), marked by high fever, neck stiffness, confusion, tremors, or paralysis – conditions that can be fatal in about 10 % of these cases. Individuals over 60, organ transplant recipients, and those with weakened immune systems or certain chronic (comorbid) conditions like diabetes, high blood pressure, or kidney disease are at higher risk of severe West Nile virus illness. While anyone can be bitten by an infected mosquito, these groups are more likely to experience serious complications if infected. Additionally, people with weakened immune systems, due to conditions like HIV/AIDS, cancer, or undergoing chemotherapy, are more susceptible to severe illness. Individuals who have received organ transplants are at increased risk due to the immunosuppressant medications they take to prevent organ rejection. While not a direct risk factor for acquiring the virus, pregnant women and breastfeeding mothers should be cautious and consult with their doctor if they experience symptoms. Precautions and safety tips To prevent West Nile virus (WNV) infection, the most important precaution is to minimize mosquito bites. This involves using insect repellent, wearing protective clothing, and reducing mosquito breeding sites. Additionally, limiting outdoor activities during peak mosquito hours (dusk and dawn) and ensuring proper screening of windows and doors can help reduce exposure. Department of Public Health and the CDC recommend: Avoid peak mosquito activity: Be cautious at dusk and dawn, when Culex mosquitoes are most active. Use EPA‑registered insect repellents: DEET, picaridin, IR3535, or oil of lemon eucalyptus are recommended. Dress smart: When outdoors, especially during peak mosquito hours, wear long sleeves, long pants, and a hat to cover as much skin as possible. Eliminate standing water weekly: Dump water from flowerpots, gutters, and water bowls, as mosquitoes need only a bottlecap's water to breed. Maintain screens and doors: Install and repair screens on windows and doors to keep mosquitoes out. Use mosquito netting: If you are sleeping outdoors or in an unscreened area, use mosquito netting to prevent bites. Be informed and report: Stay updated on local alerts and report stagnant water or dead birds to county health officials. Be aware of travel risks: If traveling to an area with known WNV activity, take extra precautions and consult with your doctor about necessary preventative measures. Georgia: Fulton County election workers testify about harassment
Deccan Herald
12-07-2025
- Health
- Deccan Herald
9 Japanese Encephalitis cases reported in Nagaland in 2025, health department issues advisory
The state's Department of Health and Family Welfare said that JE is a potentially severe viral infection transmitted by Culex mosquitoes, which breed in stagnant water sources like paddy fields and ponds.
Time of India
12-07-2025
- Health
- Time of India
9 Japanese Encephalitis cases reported in Nagaland in 2025, health department issues advisory
Japanese Encephalitis cases reported in Nagaland KOHIMA: Nine cases of Japanese Encephalitis (JE) have so far been reported in Nagaland this year, prompting the state's health department to issue a public advisory calling for increased vigilance, especially during the ongoing monsoon season when the risk of mosquito-borne diseases is at its peak. The state's department of health and family welfare said that JE is a potentially severe viral infection transmitted by Culex mosquitoes, which breed in stagnant water sources like paddy fields and ponds. The disease can cause brain inflammation and lead to serious complications or death. "For every symptomatic JE case, there are likely 300 to 1000 asymptomatic infections," the department noted, underlining the importance of early detection and preventive action. Pigs, which act as amplifying hosts, play a key role in the transmission cycle. The virus, however, is not spread from person to person, the department said. "There is no specific antiviral treatment for JE; medical care is focused on managing symptoms. The typical incubation period is 5-10 days," it said. "The district health units have been directed to strengthen disease surveillance, carry out fogging operations, and raise public awareness. The health department has advised individuals experiencing sudden high fever, headache, vomiting, or confusion to seek immediate medical attention," the advisory said. The department also highlighted the need to boost routine immunisation, promote community engagement, and respond swiftly to any new cases.
