Assam: Japanese Encephalitis outbreak worsens in state, 13 deaths reported in 3 months

Staff reporter

Guwahati: The outbreak of Japanese Encephalitis (JE) in Assam has taken an alarming turn, with Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) confirming 13 deaths due to the disease over the last three months.

According to hospital authorities, GMCH has admitted a total of 57 encephalitis patients during this period. At present, 47 patients are undergoing treatment at the hospital. Notably, 10 new JE cases were reported in the past 24 hours alone, indicating a sharp rise in infections.

Health officials have raised concerns about the escalating situation, especially with the monsoon season in full swing—a period that typically sees a surge in mosquito-borne diseases like JE. The virus, which causes a viral brain infection, is primarily transmitted through mosquito bites and poses a serious public health threat, particularly in rural and flood-prone areas of the state.

Despite the spike in cases, there is some relief—10 patients have recovered and have been discharged from the hospital.

In response to the situation, the state health department is expected to intensify its preventive measures, including fogging operations, awareness campaigns, and vaccination drives in the most affected districts.

Authorities have urged the public to remain alert and take necessary precautions such as using mosquito nets, repellents, and avoiding exposure during dusk and dawn when mosquito activity is at its peak.

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