Editorial Team
... Read More
By clicking “Accept All Cookies”, you agree to the storing of cookies on your device to enhance site navigation, analyze site usage, and assist in our marketing efforts. Cookie Policy.
Written By: Editorial Team | Updated : June 30, 2014 11:45 AM IST
Union Health Minister Harsh Vardhan has sought the help from a US-based research institution to understand the root causes (etiology) of acute encephalitis syndrome (AES), which is still a mystery. Vardhan, who is on an official tour of the US, yesterday yesterday, held a four-hour long meeting with top experts at the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) in Atlanta. During the talks, he highlighted the annual visitation of Japanese encephalitis and acute encephalitis syndrome (AES) which leads to heavy loss of life in Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, according to a press release. (Read: Central government to assist Bihar in encephalitis immunization campaign)
'Though I have personally visited the affected areas of the two states recently and overseen an immunisation drive, I feel that CDC's research assistance could go a long way in understanding the root causes (etiology) of AES which is still a mystery. So I made a request to Dr Tom Frieden, Director in this regard,' the release added. Vardhan also discussed the possibility of CDC giving technical assistance for development of early warning, epidemic preparedness and response, development of field friendly rapid diagnostic kits and bilateral cooperation for development of Dengue vaccine. (Read: Bihar encephalitis update: Parents now pray for a miracle)
The Minister and the CDC specialists exchanged views on programmes for diabetes, hypertension, ending the culture of physical inactivity and on the need for strengthening global health security, the release said. The Health Minister reiterated his intention of making health for all a social movement in India. (Read: Bihar to have its 1st encephalitis immunization campaign)
What is encephalitis?
Encephalitis is a disease that results in inflammation of the brain. The patient's central nervous system is affected. While the lesser symptoms include headaches and fevers, the more severe ones cause the onset of mental issues like seizures, confusion, disorientation, tremors and hallucinations. It can be caused due to bacterial or viral infections of the brain, injection of toxic substances or increased complications of an infectious disease. (Read:Disease trends in India)
With inputs from PTI
For more articles on healthcare, visit our healthcare section. Follow us on Facebook and Twitter for all the latest updates! For daily free health tips, sign up for our newsletter. And to join discussions on health topics of your choice, visit our forum.
