Japanese Encephalitis
Description
A viral infection (flavivirus) that infects the brain (encephalitis) acquired from the bite of a mosquito (Culex mosquito). The disease is found in Asia and is very rare in the United States but is occasionally seen in people returning from Asia. Infections can result in mild disease or a rapidly progressive fatal course. This disorder is the leading cause of encephalitis in Asia. There is a vaccine against this disease and it is recommended for anyone with an extended visit to an effected area.
Symptoms
Symptoms begin 5-15 days after the mosquito bite and include: fever, headache, neck stiffness, confusion, tremors, seizures, muscle weakness, coma, and death.
Tests
A history and physical exam will be done. Because of the non-specific symptoms blood tests and imaging tests such as a CT scan and MRI will be done. The virus can be identified in blood or cerebrospinal fluid (CSF). A blood test to identify the antibody (IgM) against the virus can also be performed.
- Antibody Tests
- CBC
- Chem 12
- CT Scan
- MRI
Treatment
There is no specific treatment. Therapy is aimed at treating the symptoms and specific treatment is based on the symptoms being experienced. Patients should drink plenty of fluids, take acetaminophen, a non-steroidal anti-inflammatory (ibuprofen) or aspirin for their fever. Children should not take aspirin because of the risk of Reyes syndrome. Immediate treatment should be sought for persistent vomiting, severe headache, confusion seizures, weakness, or other serious symptoms. Some patients may require hospital admission.
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Research
- Infectious Disease Medicine
- Internal Medicine
- Neurology
- Pediatric Infectious Disease Medicine
- Pediatric Neurology
- Pediatrics
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