Two Cases of Japanese Encephalitis Caused by Mosquitoes Reported in Penang

By Karissa Lund  •  26 Jun 2020 in News

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According to NST, two cases of Japanese encephalitis (JE) infection were reported in Penang, namely in Sungai Bakap locality within the Seberang Prai Selatan district.

The state’s Health Department announced that its health facilities are now taking precautionary measures and increasing their level of preparation to contain the spread of the viral disease.

Staff from the Seberang Prai Selatan District Health Office have also been tracking down individuals with fever and neurological symptoms such as headaches, fainting, disorientation, coma, paralysis, loss of coordination and cramps, among others, since May 12.

“Since this is a mosquito-borne disease, all mosquito breeding grounds in the affected locality will be destroyed. (We will also conduct) fogging and larvicide spraying to break the chain of infection.

Conduct gotong-royong to keep your housing area clean. Also, adopt the 3C concept – avoid crowded and confined spaces and close conversation,” urged the state’s Health Dept in a statement.

JE is a viral infection and is primarily transmitted by Culex mosquitoes that feed off infected mammals which then feed on humans thus passing us the animal’s disease. The last case of JE in Penang was detected in 2018.

According to Wikipedia, JE can be prevented with a vaccine which is safe and effective. Once infected, there is no specific treatment, with care being supportive. This is generally carried out in hospital. Permanent problems occur in up to half of people who recover from JE.

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