Have 224 Cases of Japanese Encephalitis Been Reported from 11 States in 2025?
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Synopsis
In 2025, 224 cases of Japanese Encephalitis have emerged across 11 states in India—a decrease from previous years. This article delves into the statistics, state-wise distribution, and the government's efforts to enhance disease surveillance.
Key Takeaways
- 224 cases of Japanese Encephalitis reported in 2025.
- Cases documented across 11 states in India.
- Assam had the highest cases at 127.
- 2025 shows a decrease in cases compared to previous years.
- Strengthening of disease surveillance through the IDSP.
New Delhi, Aug 8 (NationPress) In 2025, a total of 224 cases of Japanese Encephalitis (JE), a viral illness spread by mosquitoes, have been documented across 11 states, as reported by the government to Parliament on Friday.
In response to a question in the Lok Sabha, Anupriya Patel, the Union Minister of State for Health and Family Welfare, disclosed the number of encephalitis cases—an inflammation of the brain often resulting from bacterial or viral infections—recorded in the nation over the past five years.
When compared to the previous five years, the year 2025, as of June 30, has shown the lowest incidence of JE.
Patel stated, "The 11 states reporting JE cases in 2025 include Assam, Bihar, Jharkhand, Karnataka, Manipur, Meghalaya, Odisha, Tamil Nadu, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, and West Bengal."
Among these, Assam recorded the highest number of JE cases at 127, while Uttar Pradesh had the lowest with just 2 cases.
In 2020, there were 729 cases, which increased to 787 in 2021, and further to 1,109 in 2022. The numbers slightly decreased to 1,107 in 2023, yet 2024 witnessed the highest cases at 1,472, according to Patel.
The National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC), under the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare, is responsible for maintaining surveillance data on JE cases, Patel added.
"While various factors contribute to the incidence of encephalitis in India, including environmental, socio-economic, and nutritional elements, it is crucial to acknowledge that timely and standardized reporting is essential for effective surveillance and response," she emphasized.
The Minister highlighted that the Ministry of Health and Family Welfare has enhanced its disease surveillance framework.
The Integrated Disease Surveillance Program (IDSP) is a critical initiative under the National Health Mission, conducting disease surveillance across the nation.
Patel noted, "IDSP is operational in all 36 States/UTs and is charged with monitoring epidemic-prone diseases, including Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) and Japanese Encephalitis (JE). This program facilitates early detection and prompt response to outbreaks.
Weekly reporting from districts under the IDSP is conducted via a three-tier system (S, P, and L forms) to capture suspected and laboratory-confirmed cases of AES/JE.
"To further enhance disease surveillance in the country, the IDSP has transitioned from a paper-based reporting system to a digital format through the Integrated Health Information Platform (IHIP)," the Minister stated.
IHIP serves as a comprehensive information platform, integrating data from various registries to provide near real-time health surveillance data across India, enabling decision-makers to implement appropriate public health measures.
IHIP supports case-based surveillance with geo-tagging, decision-making tools, and integrated dashboards.
The NCVBDC also runs a specialized program for controlling Japanese Encephalitis (JE) known as the National Programme for Prevention and Control of Japanese Encephalitis (JE).
Point of View
It is imperative to highlight that the government’s ongoing efforts to manage the Japanese Encephalitis situation reflect a commitment to public health. The decline in reported cases in 2025 is a positive indicator, though vigilance remains essential. Accurate data reporting and effective response mechanisms are crucial in tackling such viral diseases. Our nation must continue to prioritize health surveillance to protect our communities.
NationPress
19/08/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Japanese Encephalitis?
Japanese Encephalitis is a viral infection transmitted through mosquito bites, which can lead to inflammation of the brain.
How many states reported cases in 2025?
In 2025, cases of Japanese Encephalitis were reported from 11 states.
What were the total cases reported in Assam?
Assam reported the highest number of cases, totaling 127.
How does the number of cases in 2025 compare to previous years?
The year 2025 has seen the lowest number of Japanese Encephalitis cases compared to the last five years.
What initiatives are in place for disease surveillance?
The Integrated Disease Surveillance Program (IDSP) is responsible for monitoring epidemic-prone diseases, including JE.
