HT Bureau
DIPHU, July 14: Karbi Anglong district has reported its first fatality due to Japanese Encephalitis (JE) this year with the death of nine-year-old Martina Teronpi of Disama No 2, Rong-Ali village, highlighting growing concerns over the spread of vector-borne diseases in the region.
The minor was admitted to the Intensive Care Unit of Diphu Medical College and Hospital on July 7 following complications arising from the infection.
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Despite medical intervention, she succumbed to the illness on July 12.
The case has intensified calls for immediate public health action and community awareness.
JE is a viral disease transmitted by mosquitoes, primarily in rural and agricultural areas with standing water bodies such as rice fields.
Children are particularly vulnerable to the disease, which has no specific cure once symptoms develop.
Health officials have reiterated that prevention remains the most effective defence.
Amid reports of JE and Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) cases from different parts of the district, the District Health Society under the National Health Mission (NHM) has launched a comprehensive containment and awareness campaign to curb the spread.
Thermal fogging operations are underway in identified JE-positive localities, with special focus on mosquito control in high-risk zones.
These activities are being conducted by the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC) team and monitored by Multi-Purpose Workers, Surveillance Workers, and Surveillance Inspectors to ensure effective implementation.
In addition to vector control efforts, awareness campaigns are being carried out in Diphu and Manja areas through distribution of informative leaflets.
These materials educate the public about the causes, symptoms, preventive measures, and the need for timely medical intervention for JE and AES.
The district health department has also appealed to residents to keep their surroundings clean, eliminate stagnant water sources, use mosquito nets and repellents, and seek immediate medical attention if symptoms such as high fever, vomiting, convulsions, or unconsciousness are observed.
Officials have urged communities across Karbi Anglong to remain vigilant, as the district steps up its response to prevent further casualties and contain the disease through coordinated public health measures.
