Guwahati, 1st August: The dreaded vector-borne disease, Japanese Encephalitis (JE), has claimed the life of an 11-year-old boy in Rupahihat, Assam. Taibur Islam, the young victim, had been undergoing treatment at a private hospital in Nagaon but tragically succumbed to the infection on Tuesday.
This is not the first time Assam has been hit by the deadly virus. Just last month, another child fell victim to Japanese Encephalitis in Lakhimpur district, with several others also infected by the virus.
Japanese Encephalitis is a viral brain infection transmitted through mosquito bites. The virus primarily resides in pigs and birds, which act as reservoirs for the disease, and it is transmitted to humans through mosquito vectors. Unfortunately, there is no cure for the disease, and treatment focuses on alleviating severe clinical signs and supporting patients through the infection.
In light of the recent outbreak, the state government has issued essential guidelines to protect against the disease:
- Prevent water accumulation around your home, as stagnant water becomes breeding grounds for mosquitoes.
- Use smoke to deter mosquitoes from entering your house.
- Wear full-sleeved clothing and cover your body to minimize exposure to mosquito bites.
- Utilize mosquito nets, repellent creams, and liquid vaporizers to keep mosquitoes at bay.
As the community mourns the loss of young Taibur Islam, awareness and preventive measures are crucial to combat Japanese Encephalitis and protect the well-being of the residents in Assam. Vigilance and adherence to the government’s instructions are vital in curbing the spread of this serious disease.
Also read: Commercial LPG slashed by Rs 99.75, no revision for domestic cylinders