Japanese Encephalitis Cases Rise Across Nepal as 21 Deaths Reported

Nepal is facing growing concern over Japanese Encephalitis (JE), with 80 laboratory-confirmed cases reported across 59 local units in 25 districts this year. According to the Family Welfare Division under the Department of Health Services, 21 people have died, and 86% of confirmed patients had not received the JE vaccine. All 21 people who died were unvaccinated. Jhapa has reported the highest number of cases with 10, followed by Kailali and Morang with seven each, while Saptari and Kanchanpur have recorded six cases each.

Japanese Encephalitis is a mosquito-borne viral disease, mainly spread by infected Culex mosquitoes. The disease is more common around rice fields and areas where pigs are raised. Health officials have urged people to protect themselves from mosquito bites and make sure eligible children receive the JE vaccine. The government provides the vaccine to children at 12 months, with catch-up vaccination available up to five years of age. People experiencing high fever, severe headache, seizures, loss of consciousness or changes in mental condition are advised to seek medical care immediately rather than relying on home treatment.

Key Facts:

• 80 confirmed JE cases

• 21 deaths