Epidemiological report on outbreak investigation of AES/JE in Gaya district, Bihar in 2016

Ragini Mishra; Alok Kumar

Volume : VII, Issue : III, March - 2018

Epidemiological report on outbreak investigation of AES/JE in Gaya district, Bihar in 2016

Ragini Mishra, Alok Kumar

Abstract :

Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) and Japanese Encephalitis (JE) is a major public health problem in Bihar claiming lives of many persons especially the childrens every year. Recurrent outeaks of AES/JE have been reported in Gaya district, Bihar in recent years. Outeak of AES/JE in Gaya in 2016 was investigated. Epidemiological, Entomological and Environmental investigations were carried out. From 23 June 2016 till 14 July 2016, total 29 cases and 17 deaths due to AES were reported in Gaya district. Out of the total 29 cases, etiological confirmation could be done in 10 cases out of which 3, 3 & 4 cases were confirmed as JE, Herpes Encephalitis and Chandipura Viral Encephalitis respectively. This was the first ever report of Chandipura Viral Encephalitis in the State throwing insights into the new etiological agents causing the AES outeaks. Block Wazirganj was the most affected followed by Imamganj. Fever and altered sensorium was present in 100% of the cases. Outeak peak was observed on 24 June 2016. Per Man Hour Density (PMHD) of culex was higher when compared to other mosquito species. Culicine Larval density/dip was higher in cattle feeding containers followed by paddy fields. Most of the affected population belonged to low socio–economic strata. Awareness regarding the disease was also very less in the affected population. The study would help to identify the factors leading to the recurrent outeaks in the region and for selection of appropriate remedial actions.