Japanese encephalitis is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes that mainly affects the central nervous system. This disease, caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), is endemic in several countries in Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific, where epidemic outbreaks are reported regularly. In this article, we will explore the symptoms, causes, and epidemiology of Japanese encephalitis, a disease that can have serious health consequences for those affected.
Symptoms of Japanese encephalitis
Symptoms of Japanese encephalitis usually appear 5 to 15 days after the bite of a mosquito infected with the JEV virus. The disease can manifest itself in a mild or severe form, and in some cases it can be fatal. Initial symptoms are usually similar to those of the common flu and include fever, headache, malaise, and vomiting.
As the illness progresses, more serious symptoms may develop, such as a stiff neck. , confusion, seizures, muscle weakness, tremors and coordination problems. In severe cases, Japanese encephalitis can cause inflammation of the brain, which can lead to permanent brain damage or even death.
Causes of Japanese encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis is caused by the JEV virus, which belongs to the Flavivirus genus and is transmitted through the bite of infected mosquitoes, mainly of the Culex genus. Mosquitoes become infected by feeding on infected birds, which act as reservoirs for the virus. Once an infected mosquito bites a human, the virus can enter the bloodstream and spread to the brain, where it causes the inflammation characteristic of encephalitis.
It is important to note that Japanese encephalitis is not transmitted from person to person, but through the bite of infected mosquitoes. Prevention of the disease is based on avoiding mosquito bites, especially in endemic areas, through the use of repellents, mosquito nets and clothing that covers the skin.
Epidemiology of Japanese encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis is endemic in numerous countries in Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific, where outbreaks of the disease are reported regularly, especially during the rainy season. Some of the countries most affected by Japanese encephalitis are China, India, Thailand, Indonesia, Vietnam and the Philippines.
It is estimated that around 68,000 cases of Japanese encephalitis occur worldwide each year, with a high mortality rate in severe cases. Children and the elderly are the groups at highest risk of serious complications from the disease, although people of all ages can be affected.
Despite the existence of a safe and effective vaccine against encephalitis Japanese, this disease continues to represent a threat to public health in many regions. Vaccination and mosquito control measures are essential to prevent the spread of the disease and reduce its impact on the health of vulnerable populations.
In conclusion, Japanese encephalitis is a serious viral disease that affects to the central nervous system and can have devastating consequences for the health of infected people. With adequate prevention, diagnosis and treatment, it is possible to reduce the impact of this disease on affected communities and improve the quality of life of those at risk of contracting it.