Mumbai, August 2: According to the Union Health Ministry, 148 cases of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) have been reported across the country, resulting in 59 deaths. As of July 31, Gujarat had reported 140 cases, 4 cases in Madhya Pradesh, 3 cases in Rajasthan, and 1 case in Maharashtra. Let’s delve deeper into this disease and explore the measures the government is taking to address it.
In response to this outbreak of viral infection In response, the National Centre for Disease Control (NCDC) and the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) are jointly issuing an advisory to guide states on managing AES cases and implementing preventive measures. Chandipura Virus in Gujarat: 6 Children Die Due to Suspected Virus Infection in the Past 5 Days, Says Health Minister Rushikesh Patel.
What is Acute Encephalitis Syndrome?
Acute Encephalitis Syndrome is a disease that affects the central nervous system and can cause severe complications, seizures, and even death, according to the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) guidelines. This viral infection is classified as a vector-borne disease that is caused by viruses, bacteria, fungi, parasites, spirochetes, chemicals, toxins, etc. AES is an inflammation of the brain usually caused by infections like dengue, Japanese encephalitis, and others. However, not all AES patients are affected by the Chandipura virus. What Is West Nile Fever? As Cases Reported in Kerala, Know All About Symptoms, Causes, and Treatment for West Nile Virus Infection.
Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) typically causes high fever, severe headaches, seizures, confusion, and altered consciousness. Patients may also experience neck stiffness, sensitivity to light, nausea, and vomiting. In severe cases, symptoms can include loss of motor functions and changes in behaviour.
Government Measures to Manage Acute Encephalitis Syndrome
The National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) guidelines for managing Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) emphasise ruling out conditions like meningitis or cerebral malaria that need different treatments. Immediate assessment of airway patency and addressing symptoms such as high fever and convulsions are essential. While treatment protocols remain consistent across all care levels, patients may need to be transferred to higher facilities. Providing all possible treatments at the initial facility helps reduce delays in transportation.
In endemic areas, facilities should have ambulances, oxygen, medicines, and IV cannulas, with staff trained in their use. Ventilatory support should be available only at specialised centres. These measures are designed to enhance patient care and lower AES-related mortality.
A National Joint Outbreak Response Team (NJORT) has been deployed to support the Gujarat government with public health measures and to conduct a comprehensive epidemiological investigation into the outbreak.
(The above story first appeared on Today News 24 on Aug 02, 2024 09:02 AM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website todaynews24.top).
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