Significant Progress in Controlling Japanese Encephalitis in Uttar Pradesh

Uttar Pradesh's health department has reported a remarkable achievement in controlling Japanese Encephalitis and Acute Encephalitis Syndrome, with no child fatalities this year. The success is attributed to the Gorakhpur model, which emphasizes awareness, timely diagnosis, and treatment. Historical data shows a significant decline in mortality rates since 2017, with current case fatality rates at zero. The department's collaborative efforts, including training teachers and forming specialized teams, have further strengthened disease management. This initiative aims to eradicate the threat of these viral diseases, particularly among children, who are most vulnerable.

By Narendra Chaudhary May 10, 2026, 00:13 IST

Gorakhpur News

In Uttar Pradesh, the health department has achieved notable success in combating Japanese Encephalitis (JE) and Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES). According to officials, there have been no reported deaths from these diseases among children this year. The Gorakhpur model, which emphasizes awareness campaigns, timely diagnosis, and treatment, has led to a significant reduction in both the number of cases and mortality rates. The state claims to have gained substantial control over these illnesses.

No Deaths Reported This Year

The health department's team asserts that they have largely controlled JE and AES, with no fatalities reported so far this year. While some individuals have fallen ill, timely medical intervention has resulted in their recovery. Historically, prior to 2017, these diseases caused numerous deaths, but efforts through the National Vector Borne Disease Control Program have made a considerable impact.

Historical Context of Mortality Rates

Before 2017, the case fatality rate (CFR) for AES was 13.9%, and for JE, it was 13.4%. However, due to awareness initiatives and prompt treatment, the control over these diseases has improved to 95%. In 2003, there were 300 reported cases, with a CFR of 0.6%, while in 2025, this number dropped to approximately 150 cases, with only three cases reported this year. Currently, the CFR for both diseases stands at zero.

Implementation of the Gorakhpur Model

The health department is not only applying the Gorakhpur model to control these diseases in other divisions but has also integrated it into the Dastak campaign, which now includes leprosy, malaria, and tuberculosis. The Gorakhpur division, along with several districts in Purvanchal, has been significantly affected by these diseases, prompting the implementation of targeted strategies.

Formation of 12 Teams

A collaborative team comprising 12 departments, including the municipal corporation, panchayat, and animal husbandry, has been established under the health department's leadership. Each department has been assigned specific responsibilities. Previously, patients with JE and AES were referred directly to the Gorakhpur BRD Medical College, which led to increased pressure on the facility and resulted in some patients succumbing before reaching the hospital.

Training for Teachers

The health department has trained teachers in schools to act as health coordinators. If a child exhibits fever symptoms, they are promptly referred to hospitals through ASHA workers and ANMs. Immediate testing based on symptoms has been initiated, and treatment centers for encephalitis have been established at primary health centers, resulting in a drastic reduction in patient numbers and zero fatalities.

Ongoing Efforts Against Infectious Diseases

Dr. Vikas Shedu Agrawal, an official overseeing the infectious disease control campaign, stated that the goal is to achieve a zero CFR for all infectious diseases. A statewide campaign for controlling communicable diseases has been launched, alongside a 20-day Dastak campaign aimed at raising awareness about various illnesses, including TB, malaria, and leprosy. Japanese Encephalitis is a severe viral disease transmitted by infected Culex mosquitoes, affecting the brain and often misinterpreted as a common fever, which can lead to fatalities, particularly among children.