Japanese Encephalitis in Hanoi: A Dangerous Disease and the Importance of Vaccination

In Hanoi, a 12-year-old boy from Phuc Tho district was reported as the first case of Japanese encephalitis this year. The boy developed symptoms of high fever and headache on June 16, followed by a stiff neck and inability to walk the next day. His family took him to the National Children’s Hospital, where tests confirmed that he had the Japanese encephalitis virus in his cerebrospinal fluid.

Japanese encephalitis is a severe disease caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus, which is transmitted strongly by the Culex tritaeniorhynchus mosquito, active in Vietnam from March to July. This mosquito species is prevalent in the delta and midland areas and is the primary vector for Japanese encephalitis in Vietnam. The disease mainly affects children, causing encephalitis and meningitis with a high mortality rate and long-term consequences.

Symptoms of Japanese encephalitis can be challenging to detect early as they are similar to other infections. However, as the disease progresses, symptoms such as high fever, nausea, vomiting, headache, and lethargy become more apparent. If left untreated, it can rapidly advance to seizures, coma, and even death within a few days. Additionally, it can lead to long-term neurological complications that impair communication and work abilities.

Vaccination is currently the most effective way to prevent Japanese encephalitis. The Department of Preventive Medicine recommends a series of three basic doses starting after one year of age with additional booster shots every few years until reaching 15 years old.

Following this vaccination schedule significantly reduces an individual’s risk of contracting this potentially life-threatening disease.

It’s essential for individuals living in Hanoi or other areas where Japanese encephalitis is prevalent to stay informed about vaccinations and take necessary precautions against mosquito bites during peak transmission periods.