Japanese Encephalitis
Description
Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a viral brain infection caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), which is transmitted by mosquito bites in parts of Asia and the Western Pacific. It primarily affects rural areas with rice paddies and pig farms. Symptoms range from mild fever to severe brain inflammation, causing high fever, headaches, vomiting, seizures, confusion, paralysis, and coma. Severe cases can result in permanent neurological damage or death. Diagnosis involves blood tests, cerebrospinal fluid analysis, and brain imaging. There is no specific cure, but supportive treatment helps manage symptoms. The JE vaccine is the best prevention, along with mosquito control measures.