Viral encephalitis cases set alarm bells ringing

3 cases per week reported in hospitals, say doctors

The respite from cases of dengue, notwithstanding, the city is now caught in the grip of viral encephalitis, or brain fever. There is an alarming increase in the number of viral encephalitis cases being reported across city hospitals. This is ironic as October is medically termed as ‘fairweather’ season. The rise in the number of cases has been worrisome and those getting inflicted include children and elders.

Many are complaining of fever of the brain with body temperature touching 106-107 degrees C.

According to doctors, at least three cases are reported each week in the tertiary hospitals of which seven major ones are in the city.

Dr Shyam Jaiswal, neurologist at Care Hospitals, explains, “Of late, we have been admitting viral encephalitis-affected children in the hospital. Most fall sick because of the body’s low immunity. Immediate hospital care is a must as most complain of severe headache, delirium and in some cases even loss of memory. The treatment takes between two and three days.”

Although, dengue cases have reduced, two to three cases are still reported every week.

Chikungunya cases are also still high and they are mostly being noted in the elderly.

It is a medical nightmare that some elders are suffering from both chikungunya and viral encephalitis.

Dr Hari Kishan B, general physician with Apollo Hospitals, explains, “The combination of chikungunya and viral encephalitis has been noted earlier too. These are rare cases but do occur from time to time. The viral infections have been very high this year and those suffering from diabetes, hypertension and other cardiovascular ailments, will suffer more when infected with these viruses.”