Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES)

Why in news?

• The acute encephalitis syndrome (AES), known locally as ‘chamki bukhar’, which was the leading cause of deaths of many children in Muzaffarpur and adjoining districts of north Bihar during the last 25 years, has almost been contained this year. 

What is acute encephalitis syndrome (AES)?

• AES affects central nervous system, mostly in children and young adults.
• It starts with high fever, then hampers neurological functions causing mental disorientation, seizure, confusion, delirium, coma. In recent outbreaks, a sudden drop in the blood sugar levels has been a common symptom.
• Mortality rates in kids is due to high malnutrition which leads to lack of immunity.
• The disease outbreak is usually reported during monsoons (June-October). But the incidence is also reported during April-June in Bihar.

What causes AES?

• This syndrome is very complex. It can be caused by virus, bacteria, fungi, and a range of agents.
• Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus is the most common cause of AES in India.
• In the recent cases, it is believed that consumption of the lychee fruit infested with virus may have been the cause of infections.

Prelims Question

Consider the following statements regarding Acute Encephalitis Syndrome:
1.It is caused by Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus only.
2.Children are more vulnerable to AES compared to adults. 
Which of the statements given above is/are correct?
(a)1 only
(b)2 only
(c)Both 1 and 2
(d)Neither 1 nor 2

Answer to Prelims Question