Japanese encephalitis in India: an overview

Area of Science:

• Epidemiology
• Public Health
• Infectious Diseases

Background:

• Japanese encephalitis (JE) epidemics are increasingly reported across India, with a notable rise in incidence.
• The pediatric population is disproportionately affected, experiencing high mortality rates from JE.
• JE poses a significant and escalating public health challenge in India due to a large vulnerable population and widespread endemic areas.

Purpose of the Study:

• To highlight the increasing incidence and impact of Japanese encephalitis in India.
• To emphasize the need for enhanced diagnostic and surveillance strategies for JE.
• To underscore the importance of vaccination for both humans and amplifying hosts in JE control.

Main Methods:

• Review of reported JE epidemic data and incidence trends.
• Analysis of the impact on the pediatric population and mortality rates.
• Assessment of diagnostic facility strengthening and hospital networking for case ascertainment.

Main Results:

• JE incidence shows an upward trend, particularly in pediatric groups.
• JE is identified as a major potential public health problem in India.
• Effective JE control requires improved diagnostics, surveillance, and integrated vaccination strategies.

Conclusions:

• Strengthening diagnostic facilities and inter-hospital communication is vital for accurate JE burden estimation.
• Vaccination of the human population and amplifying hosts (pigs) is essential to interrupt JE transmission.
• A comprehensive approach involving diagnostics, surveillance, and vaccination is necessary to combat the rising threat of Japanese encephalitis.