Japanese Encephalitis (JE) is a viral disease that affects the brain and is primarily spread by infected mosquitoes, specifically culex mosquitoes. It is most common in rural areas of Asia and the Pacific, especially in regions with rice paddies and standing water, where mosquitoes breed. While many people infected with JE do not show symptoms, those who do may experience fever, headache, vomiting, and in severe cases, inflammation of the brain. In Northeast India, JE presents a significant challenge due to the abundance of mosquitoes, which thrive in the region’s many farming areas, particularly those with lots of standing water.

To address the pressing concerns around JE, the Center for Tropical Medicine UGM and TDR Global Asia hosted an online event on August 21, 2024, where nearly 100 participants gathered to hear from two renowned experts: Dr. Gitali Kakoti and Prof. Bishnu Ram Das, both are from Jorhat Medical College. The webinar provided an in-depth exploration of the impact of JE and ways to combat its spread.

The webinar opened by Dr. Kakoti with the explanation on how JE disproportionately affects children and their families in Northeast India. She emphasized the severe financial burden that comes with treating the disease, noting, “The cost of illness can make families go bankrupt.” Her statement highlighted not only the health implications of JE but also its day-to-day economic toll on vulnerable communities.
Prof. Das continued the discussion, providing valuable insights on how JE spreads and what can be done to stop its progression. He stated that while conventional mosquito control methods have been effective for other diseases, they have not worked as well against JE. “Right now, getting vaccinated is the best way to prevent JE,” he asserted, emphasizing the critical role vaccines play in disease prevention and control.

Throughout this interactive webinar, where some participants were involved in the Q&A session, several questions were brought up. One participant wondered if people in different parts of India have equal access to the vaccine, while another asked how we can tell if our efforts to control JE are working.
Lastly, the takeaway from the event was that tackling JE requires more than just controlling mosquitoes. It involves supporting affected families and finding more effective ways to prevent and treat the disease. By fostering collaboration and sharing knowledge, we can work together to protect communities from JE and other similar health threats, ultimately contributing to a healthier and safer world for all.