Assam Battles Dual Crisis: Floods and Japanese Encephalitis Surge

Japanese Encephalitis (JE) has claimed 10 lives at Guwahati Medical College amid Assam's flood crisis. Since April, 44 cases were reported, with ongoing prevention and treatment efforts. Assam has a history of high vector-borne disease incidents, prompting public health measures and vaccination drives to combat JE.

Amid the flood situation in Assam, Japanese Encephalitis (JE) has claimed 10 lives at Guwahati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) this year. Dr. Abhijit Sarma, Superintendent of GMCH, stated that since April 1, 44 JE cases were reported, with 10 fatalities.

'Since April, 44 cases have been admitted. Currently, 25 cases are under treatment. Yesterday, we lost four patients, bringing the total to 10 deaths. The remaining cases are stable and expected to be discharged soon. Last year, we had 54 cases,' said Dr. Sarma, emphasizing the importance of preventive measures and public awareness.

Assam has seen a significant rise in vector-borne diseases like dengue and JE over recent years. JE symptoms range from mild fever and headache to severe nausea, vomiting, stiff neck, speech impediment, and spastic paralysis.

Preventive measures include wearing long-sleeved clothing, using mosquito nets, insecticides, repellents, cleaning standing water, and maintaining cleanliness. Immunization is advised, with the JE vaccine included in India's Universal Immunisation Programme (UIP) in affected regions.

Assam recorded its highest JE-related deaths in 2006, with nearly 1,500 fatalities. Dr. Sarma urged the public to adhere to health department protocols to mitigate the JE outbreak. (ANI)