Guwahati, Jun 27: Assam is witnessing a rise in Japanese Encephalitis (JE) cases, with 32 patients admitted to Gauhati Medical College and Hospital (GMCH) and four confirmed deaths, hospital authorities reported.
According to GMCH Principal Achyut Baishya, the cases have been reported from various districts—12 from Kamrup, 8 from Nalbari, 5 from Darrang, 2 from Bajali, and one each from Morigaon, Nagaon, Dhubri, and neighbouring Meghalaya.
The deceased include three children aged 7, 10, and 12, and an 81-year-old man. The deaths were recorded in Bajali, Baihata Chariali, Nalbari, and Nagaon.
The rise in cases began in April, with all fatalities occurring in June. Health officials have identified pig-rearing areas and regions with paddy fields as high-risk zones for the mosquito-borne virus.
“There is no cure for Japanese Encephalitis. Early detection and prevention are essential,” said Baishya, urging people to seek prompt medical care if symptoms such as high fever, stiff neck, or severe headache develop.
