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The first report on human cases serologically diagnosed as Japanese encephalitis in Indonesia
M Yoshida1, A Igarashi, P Suwendra
1Iwate Life Science Institute, Morioka City, Japan.
Abstract:
Although Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus was isolated from mosquitos in 1974, human JE cases have never been reported in Indonesia in spite of the prevalence of anti-JE antibodies among human and pig populations as well as abundant JE vector mosquitos. In this report, we describe serological diagnosis of JE cases in Bali. Indonesia. using IgM-capture ELISA both on serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) of the patients. In the first series of our investigation (Series 1), we examined serum specimens from 12 patients with clinical diagnosis of viral encephalitis, meningitis or dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF), and found 2 possible JE cases. In the next series (Series 2), we examined both serum and CSF from encephalitis patients and gave laboratory diagnosis of JE. One of them was suspected to have concomitant or recent infection with dengue virus, probably type 3. These results strongly indicated that JE has been prevalent in Bali, Indonesia.
Insights
Japanese encephalitis (JE) is now confirmed in Bali, Indonesia. This study used serological diagnosis to identify JE virus infections in patients, indicating its prevalence despite previous lack of reported human cases.
Area of Science:
- Virology
- Epidemiology
- Immunology
Background:
- Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus, despite isolation from mosquitoes in 1974, had no reported human cases in Indonesia.
- Prevalence of anti-JE antibodies in humans and pigs, along with abundant vector mosquitoes, suggested potential underdiagnosis.
Purpose of the Study:
- To serologically diagnose Japanese encephalitis (JE) cases in Bali, Indonesia.
- To investigate the presence and prevalence of JE virus infection in human populations.
Main Methods:
- Utilized IgM-capture ELISA for serological diagnosis on serum and cerebrospinal fluid (CSF).
- Examined specimens from patients with clinical diagnoses including viral encephalitis, meningitis, and dengue hemorrhagic fever (DHF).
Main Results:
- Identified 2 possible JE cases from 12 serum specimens in the initial investigation (Series 1).
- Provided laboratory diagnosis of JE in encephalitis patients through analysis of serum and CSF (Series 2).
- One patient showed signs of co-infection or recent infection with dengue virus type 3.
Conclusions:
- Japanese encephalitis (JE) is prevalent in Bali, Indonesia.
- Serological diagnosis is crucial for identifying JE cases, especially in regions with potential underreporting.