Japanese encephalitis

Japanese encephalitis is a mosquito-borne viral disease that can inflame the brain. It is most common in parts of Asia and the western Pacific, though most infections cause no symptoms.

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Japanese encephalitis virus: A flavivirus transmitted mainly by mosquitoes that causes Japanese encephalitis in humans and other animals. This virus causes the disease and circulates between mosquitoes and vertebrate hosts.
Japanese encephalitis vaccine: A vaccine that protects against infection with Japanese encephalitis virus. Vaccination is the main way to prevent disease in people at elevated risk.
Seizure: A sudden episode of abnormal electrical activity in the brain that can alter movement, awareness, or behavior. Seizures are a frequent complication of severe Japanese encephalitis, especially in children.
West Nile fever: A mosquito-borne illness caused by West Nile virus, which can sometimes cause encephalitis. It also has a mosquito-borne encephalitis form, but is caused by a different virus and has a distinct geographic pattern.
Culex tritaeniorhynchus: A mosquito species that is a major vector of Japanese encephalitis virus in Asia. This mosquito commonly carries the virus from animal hosts to people.
Mosquito control: Methods used to reduce mosquito populations or limit their contact with people and animals. Reducing mosquito exposure can lower transmission where the virus circulates.
Coma: A prolonged state of unconsciousness in which a person cannot be awakened or respond normally. Severe brain inflammation can lead to coma and requires urgent medical care.
St. Louis encephalitis: A mosquito-borne viral disease caused by St. Louis encephalitis virus, found mainly in the Americas. It is another flavivirus encephalitis, but its usual range lies outside Japanese encephalitis's main regions.
Ardeid: A member of the heron family, a group of waterbirds that can serve as Japanese encephalitis virus reservoirs. Herons and related waterbirds help maintain the virus in its natural cycle.
Insect repellent: A substance applied to skin or clothing to deter biting insects, including mosquitoes. Repellent helps protect people from mosquito bites in areas of transmission.