With Delhi confirming a JE case after over a decade, health officials are ramping up vector control and vaccination efforts. Find out how the zoonotic virus spreads, its impact on children, and why vaccination remains the most effective preventive measure.
BY PC Bureau
New Delhi:
After a gap of 13 years, Delhi has recorded its first case of Japanese Encephalitis (JE), according to a notification issued by the Municipal Corporation of Delhi (MCD) on Wednesday. JE is a zoonotic viral disease transmitted from animals to humans via mosquitoes, particularly those of the Culex genus.
In response, the MCD has initiated containment measures, urging district health officers and epidemiologists to intensify vector control efforts. Strategies include reducing mosquito breeding sites, launching larval source management drives, and conducting community awareness campaigns to mitigate the spread of the disease.
Understanding Japanese Encephalitis
JE is caused by a virus transmitted primarily through Culex mosquitoes that act as carriers between infected birds, pigs, and humans. Birds from the Ardeidae family, such as cattle egrets and pond herons, are common hosts. Infections can lead to febrile illnesses, with severe cases affecting the central nervous system, potentially causing seizures, brain inflammation, and even death.
According to the World Health Organization (WHO), early symptoms include fever, headache, mental confusion, and delirium. If left untreated, the disease can progress to acute encephalitis syndrome (AES), characterized by convulsions, altered consciousness, and behavioral changes.
Who Is Most at Risk?
Children under five years are particularly vulnerable to severe JE infections, as noted by Dr. Kali Charan Das, a neurologist at AIIMS Raebareli.
“While adults can contract the virus, it often remains mild or asymptomatic. However, in young children, JE can lead to life-threatening complications. The virus targets the brain, causing encephalopathy, where patients may become unresponsive and develop seizures,” he explained.
Japanese Encephalitis in India
India accounts for a significant portion of JE cases in Asia, with thousands of cases reported annually, although experts suggest the true burden may be higher due to underreporting. States such as Assam, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal report the highest incidence, often linked to proximity to pig farms and poor sanitation.
The virus claimed 10 lives in Assam earlier this year, highlighting its fatal potential. Adult vaccination campaigns have been launched in endemic regions of these states to complement childhood immunization programs.
Vaccination Efforts
To combat JE, the Government of India has included the JE vaccine in the Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP). Two doses are administered:
- The first at nine months of age, alongside the measles vaccine.
- The second between 16 and 24 months, along with the DPT booster.
Bharat Biotech’s JENVAC is the most commonly used vaccine. Vaccination campaigns have also been conducted in non-endemic states such as Maharashtra and Telangana, expanding coverage to vulnerable populations.
Why Is JE Rare in Delhi?
Delhi is not considered an endemic region for JE, with the last reported outbreak occurring in 2011 when 14 cases were documented. However, increased urbanization, changes in mosquito breeding patterns, and proximity to pig farming could increase risk.
Dr. Das emphasized the need for vigilance, particularly in areas with poor waste management and high pig density.
“Mosquitoes act as vectors, transferring the virus from infected pigs to humans. Living near such environments increases the likelihood of bites, and initial symptoms may resemble common fever,” he noted.
While the re-emergence of JE in Delhi after more than a decade has raised concerns, swift containment measures and ongoing vaccination programs are expected to curb its spread. Health authorities urge the public to take preventive measures, such as using mosquito repellents, eliminating stagnant water, and ensuring timely immunization of children.
The case underscores the importance of sustained vigilance and proactive public health interventions to prevent outbreaks of vector-borne diseases.
