Japanese Encephalitis Claims Life! Taoyuan Woman Dies from Fever and Lethargy; CDC Urges Vaccination When Necessary

The CDC announced today (28th) two new domestic cases of Japanese encephalitis, including the first fatality of the season (since last October). The CDC warns that the current period is the peak of Japanese encephalitis outbreaks, with a total of 10 domestic cases this season, one of which resulted in death. The public is urged to be alert and consider getting vaccinated if necessary.

Dr. Lin Ying-Ching, director of the Epidemic Prevention Center, stated that the first fatal case of the season was a woman in her 70s from Taoyuan City, Taoyuan District, who had a history of hypertension. In mid-July, she developed symptoms of generalized weakness, lethargy, and fever. Two days after the onset of symptoms, she sought medical attention and was hospitalized. Later, she was transferred to the intensive care unit. At the end of July, doctors reported Japanese encephalitis and conducted tests. The cerebrospinal fluid test results confirmed Japanese encephalitis. Unfortunately, the patient died from respiratory failure more than a week after hospitalization. According to the epidemiological investigation, there were indeed high-risk areas such as rice fields and pig farms near the patient's home.

Another case involved a man in his 50s from Taoyuan's Daigan District, who developed fever and headache symptoms in mid-July. Two days after the onset of symptoms, his family found him unconscious and he was taken to the hospital, where he was initially diagnosed with meningitis and admitted to a general ward. After testing, he was confirmed to have Japanese encephalitis. Currently, the patient's consciousness has slightly recovered, but he is still undergoing treatment in the hospital. There are also high-risk areas such as rice fields and pig farms near the patient's residence or activity locations. However, none of the contacts or cohabitants of the above two cases had any related discomfort symptoms.

It is important to note that the three most important preventive measures for Japanese encephalitis are to avoid mosquito bites, especially during the morning and evening when disease-carrying mosquitoes are most active. Try to avoid going to high-risk places such as rice fields, pig farms, and pigeon farms. If you must go out, remember to wear light-colored long-sleeved clothing and use government-approved insect repellent. Although there is no specific treatment for Japanese encephalitis, there is a vaccine. Children can receive the first dose at 15 months of age and the second dose a year later. Adults living or working near high-risk areas such as rice fields, pig farms, and pigeon farms can consider getting the Japanese encephalitis vaccine at their own expense.