Japanese Encephalitis Scare in Assam: 4 Dead, 32 Hospitalised at GMCH

The spread of Japanese Encephalitis (JE) has taken a dangerous turn in the state, with a sharp rise in reported cases.

At the Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH), 32 patients suffering from JE have already been admitted. All of them are being kept under close observation.

What’s more concerning is that the disease has already claimed four lives at GMCH. This sudden spike has triggered concerns among health officials, who are monitoring the situation closely.

Japanese Encephalitis, a mosquito-borne viral infection, is known to affect the brain and can be life-threatening if not treated in time. Residents are being urged to take personal precautions like using mosquito nets and avoiding stagnant water.

Earlier yesterday, panic gripped Baihata Chariali after a confirmed case of JE was reported in a nearby village. In response, local residents held an emergency awareness meeting to educate the community about how to protect themselves. They also appealed to the government for immediate intervention and stronger preventive action.

Villagers have linked the outbreak to a growing number of unregulated pig farms in the area. Many of these farms, reportedly set up by unemployed youths, are said to be operating without maintaining basic hygiene standards. Despite repeated complaints, locals allege that most of these farms continue to ignore safety guidelines, potentially increasing the risk of infection.

Since pigs are known to be carriers of the JE virus, residents have urged all pig farmers to adopt scientific and hygienic rearing practices. The community fears that unless the issue is addressed quickly, the situation may worsen.

Also Read: Baihata on Edge as Japanese Encephalitis Claims 1 Life, Another Under Treatment