The Department of Health and Family Welfare has issued an urgent public health advisory after confirming seven cases of Japanese Encephalitis (JE) across Dimapur, Chümoukedima, and Niuland districts, resulting in two deaths. The advisory was issued to the Deputy Commissioners of the three districts, warning of increased transmission risks during the ongoing monsoon season, which favours mosquito breeding.
The circular, issued under the Vector-Borne Disease Control Program, urges district authorities to mobilize community leaders, village councils, and ward authorities to take immediate and coordinated action to prevent further infections.
JE is a mosquito-borne viral disease transmitted primarily by Culex mosquitoes, which breed in waterlogged areas, paddy fields, and near pig farms. The virus can cause severe brain inflammation, especially among children and unvaccinated individuals, and may result in permanent neurological damage or death.
The Health Department also highlighted the role of pigs as amplifying hosts of the JE virus and recommended vaccination and relocation of pig shelters away from residential areas, wherever feasible.
The advisory includes a set of Do’s and Don’ts for public circulation, urging citizens to adopt mosquito control and protection measures:
Dos:
* Use mosquito nets, especially for children, both during the day and night.
* Wear long-sleeved clothing to reduce mosquito bites.
* Clean surroundings and remove stagnant water from containers, pots, and drains.
* Cover and clean water storage containers regularly.
* Report suspected JE symptoms — such as fever with neck stiffness, confusion, or seizures — to the nearest health facility without delay.
* Vaccinate pigs and relocate shelters away from human dwellings.
* Cooperate with health workers during fogging and vector surveillance activities.
Don’ts:
*Do not allow water to collect in unused containers, tyres, flowerpots, etc.
*Do not ignore symptoms of prolonged fever, especially in children.
*Do not keep pig pens close to residential areas
*Do not hinder public health workers during awareness, vaccination, or fogging drives.
*Do not rely solely on traditional remedies without medical consultation.
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