Ahead of World Brain Day 2024, doctors at Amrita Hospital in Faridabad hosted a webinar to highlight the increased risk of brain infections in India's coastal and rice belt regions, especially during the monsoon. They attributed this surge in cases of viral encephalitis and other brain infections to high humidity and increased mosquito breeding in these areas.
Encephalitis, also known as a brain infection, can damage brain tissue and lead to symptoms like fever, headaches, and seizures. During the media briefing, Dr Sanjay Pandey, HoD - Neurology and Stroke Medicine at Amrita Hospital, Faridabad, stated that children and senior citizens are more prone to catching such infections, urging parents and older adults to stay more vigilant.
Recent reports of young boys in Kerala being diagnosed with Primary Amoebic Meningoencephalitis (PAM), a rare brain infection caused by an amoeba called Naegleria fowleri, also underscore the diverse threats to brain health during this time.
Risk Of Brain Infections During Monsoon
It is believed that brain infections are relatively rare in developed countries. However, they remain a significant public health issue in South Asian nations like India.
Brain infection rates typically rise during the monsoon season, as the favourable conditions for mosquito breeding lead to an increase in viral infections like dengue and Japanese encephalitis.
Dr Pandey said, “Brain infections can be of several types, like viral, bacterial, tubercular, fungal, or protozoal. The most common symptoms of brain infections include fever, headache, vomiting, seizures, and altered consciousness.”
According to the doctor, children and senior citizens are more susceptible to brain infections because of their weaker immune systems. Therefore, he advised parents to be vigilant for symptoms such as rashes and loss of consciousness in their children during this season, further emphasising the importance of early intervention in managing these infections effectively and improving patient outcomes.
How To Reduce The Risk Of Brain Infections During This Season?
When it comes to reducing the risk of brain infections, Dr. Pandey recommends preventing mosquito breeding and protecting against mosquito bites.
This can be achieved through various measures, such as:
- Eliminate standing water by regularly emptying and cleaning containers like flowerpots, birdbaths, and buckets.
- Add oil to the surface of water in places where it cannot be drained to prevent mosquito larvae from surviving.
- Maintain lawns and gardens by keeping them well-trimmed and free of moist, shady areas to deter mosquitoes.
- Plant repellent plants like marigold, basil, and lemongrass.
- Ensure that windows and doors are properly screened.
- Use mosquito nets while sleeping to reduce mosquito breeding and prevent mosquito-borne diseases.
- Wear loose-fitting, full-sleeved shirts and pants.
- Choose light-coloured clothing.
- Apply coconut oil with camphor or essential oils like lavender, tea tree, and eucalyptus.
- Avoid outdoor activities at dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
- Eat immunity-boosting foods like papaya, kiwi, citrus fruits, garlic, ginger, and turmeric.
Importance of Timely Treatment
“If not treated timely, viral encephalitis can pave the way for parkinsonism, dystonia, and tremor,” Dr Pandey warned.
“In India, treatments for brain infections depend on the type and cause of the infection. Bacterial infections are typically treated with antibiotics, while antiviral medications are used for viral infections like Japanese encephalitis and dengue. Tubercular brain infections require a prolonged course of anti-tuberculosis drugs. Fungal infections are treated with antifungal medications. Supportive care, including anti-seizure drugs, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and hospitalisation, is often necessary. Advanced cases might require intensive care and surgical interventions. Access to these treatments varies, with urban centres generally offering more comprehensive care,” he concluded.