10 children die of Japanese encephalitis in Vietnam

At least 10 children died after being infected with Japanese encephalitis in Vietnam's Son La province, a health official said. According to the official, the virus has infected 84 residents so far after its outbreak across the province, Xinhua reported.

Symptoms of Japanese encephalitis, commonly known as 'brain inflammation', include high fever, nausea and in severe cases, seizures, paralysis and coma. Infants and the elderly are most vulnerable. The Son La health department has urged parents to take their children under five years old to hospital if they spot any such symptoms. It has also urged parents to follow a vaccination schedule, which is now seen as the most efficient way to deter their children from contracting the disease.

What is encephalitis?

Encephalitis is the medical term used for describing inflammation, irritation and swelling of the brain due to an infection. It is a medical emergency that can be life-threatening without proper treatment.

Risk factors of encephalitis

Dr Abhijit Das, Director of Neurorehabilitation Program and consultant Neurologist, Institute of Neurosciences, Kolkata says, 'Anybody can suffer from encephalitis, from children to elderly.' However, the risk is greater during the first few years of life. Additionally, people with a compromised immune system and those who have increased level of autoantibodies in them are at a greater risk.

Symptoms

The virus reaches the brain tissue and causes inflammation. It causes swelling of the brain tissue and can even destroy the neurons. Sometimes, brain hemorrhage or bleeding is also seen.

The following symptoms may occur:

• Headache
• Confusion
• Disorientation
• Stiffness in the neck and the back

Apart from these Dr Das highlights the following emergency symptoms of encephalitis.

• Altered consciousness
• Seizures
• Weakness in hand or legs
• There may be fever Read more about Encephalitis types, causes, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and prevention

With inputs from IANS

Photo source: Getty images

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