Mumbai, 15 Apr (HS): A special drive to [prevent Japanese Encephalitis

including vaccination and generating awareness has been undertaken by the state

government. The Public Health Department has expedited the vaccination mission

for the purpose. Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis said that health of public in

Maharashtra is to on the priority list of the government.

Vaccination

for Japanese Encephalitis was started in some states in 2015-16. During the

same period some cases were detected in the Vidarbha region. The Union

Government started vaccination in Maharashtra following request by the State

Government, which resulted bring down the cases to zero.

The

disease is caused by viral infection and causes inflammation of the brain

tissue and may cause serious damage to human health like neurological issues

and even death. It is more common in children and the aged.

Mosquitoes

and ticks carried by animals like pigs, are carriers of the virus. The death

rate in Japanese Encephalitis infected persons is very high.

In

2025 seven persons had died due to this infection in Maharashtra. In 2026,

however, no case has been reported so far.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Ajay Vasant Mardikar