Japanese Encephalitis Scare: Cases Soar in Golaghat, Jorhat and Sivasagar

Japanese Encephalitis has taken a worrisome turn in Golaghat district, with the health department confirming a total of 19 cases, including children, and two fatalities. The outbreak has affected multiple areas within the district, raising concerns among public health officials.

According to data released by the health department, the highest number of cases- 9- have been reported from the Komarbandha Health Block. Bokakhat and Mishamora have each reported 2 cases, while Sarupathar and Morangi health blocks have confirmed 3 cases each. The situation is being closely monitored by authorities.

Authorities are urging people, especially in rural areas, to take preventive measures such as using mosquito nets and avoiding stagnant water. Early symptoms of Japanese Encephalitis include high fever, headache, vomiting, and disorientation. Residents have been advised to seek immediate medical attention if these symptoms appear. Awareness drives have also been launched to educate the public on how to protect themselves from the disease.

Officials have expressed concern as the disease continues to spread during the peak transmission season. Among the infected, several are children, indicating a heightened public health risk.

In neighbouring Jorhat district, 15 people have been diagnosed with Japanese Encephalitis. Six of them, including four adults and two children,  have been admitted to the Jorhat Medical College and Hospital (JMCH) for treatment.

The state health department has stepped up surveillance and initiated awareness campaigns in vulnerable areas. Fogging operations and mosquito control measures have also been intensified in affected regions.

In response to the rising cases, health officials have intensified surveillance and vector control measures in the affected regions. Local communities have been urged to take preventive steps, including mosquito control and seeking immediate medical attention in case of symptoms.

In Sivasagar, 10 cases have been confirmed so far, while 19 other individuals are exhibiting symptoms consistent with Japanese Encephalitis, raising serious concerns about a potential wider outbreak in the region. 

The information was shared by Dr. Sadhan Bora, Joint Director of Health Services, Sivasagar, during a press briefing held today. He informed that daily blood sample collection is being carried out across all sub-centres and primary health centres in the district as part of active surveillance.

To combat the spread of the disease, the health department has intensified its response by administering a total of 23,000 doses of the JE vaccine. Awareness campaigns and fogging operations have also been ramped up across the affected areas.

Dr. Bora urged the public to take necessary precautions, including using mosquito nets while sleeping, eliminating stagnant water sources, and maintaining cleanliness in and around their premises. He also advised farmers working in paddy fields to wear long-sleeved clothing to reduce the risk of mosquito bites.

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