A Japanese encephalitis alert has been issued nationwide. When infected with Japanese encephalitis, people develop fever and headache. Even after symptoms improve, neurological complications may remain depending on the damaged area. If the virus spreads to the brain, severe cases can be fatal.
The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency said on the 17th that it would issue a Japanese encephalitis alert after mosquitoes carrying the virus were found in Daegu. Compared with the alert issued on Aug. 1 last year, this year is more than a month earlier. Korea reports an average of about 17 Japanese encephalitis patients per year.
A Japanese encephalitis alert is issued when there are at least 500 Culex tritaeniorhynchus and they account for 50% or more of all collected mosquitoes. When Culex tritaeniorhynchus is collected for the first time that year, an advisory is issued. This year's Japanese encephalitis advisory was issued in March.
Japanese encephalitis is transmitted by Culex tritaeniorhynchus. Culex tritaeniorhynchus feeds at night near animal barns or puddles. To prevent Japanese encephalitis, it is important to refrain from outdoor activities at night and avoid mosquito bites. When going out, wear long, light-colored clothing and avoid strong perfumes that can attract mosquitoes.
Japanese encephalitis is prevented with a vaccine. The disease agency recommended vaccination for children 12 and under, people who work in rice paddies and barns, or those who have traveled to high-risk countries. Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency Commissioner Lim Seung-gwan said, "Local governments should carry out larval control focusing on stagnant water."