Japanese Encephalitis death toll rises to 19 in Malkangiri

Malkangiri: The number of deaths due to Japanese Encephalitis (JE) reached 19 today with the death of three more children due to the disease. According to reports, three girl children, who were undergoing treatment at the Malkangiri district headquarters hospital (DHH), died within an hour of getting admitted in the hospital.

The deceased were identified as Sarita Madakami (2) of Namakonda village, Chandrika Muduli (4) of Bhatishalguda and Sweety Madakami of Nuagada village of the district. The trio had been admitted in the hospital after they complained of fever, vomiting and fatigue. Besides, blood samples of children, who are in critical condition, have been sent to the Regional Medical Research Centre (RMRC).

ADMO Sashibhusan Mohapatra said, “The number of deaths is increasing as patients are admitted to hospital on last moment. As it is a viral disease, there is no treatment for the disease. Only preventive measures can be taken to tackle the situation.”

Meanwhile, an expert team from Berhampur is providing treatment to the affected children, he added.