DERGAON, July 26 � After the outbreak of malaria, the Golaghat district is facing more problems on the health front after eight Japanese Encephalitis cases have been confirmed. The disease has already claimed a life in the district so far.
An 82-year-old retired teacher, who was a resident of Tamulipathar under the Kamargaon PS in Golaghat district, had been suffering from fever and was initially treated here. Later, he was shifted to the Assam Medical College Hospital in Dibrugarh where he died. He tested positive for Japanese Encephalitis at the AMCH.
A total of eight out of 60 Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) cases have been tested positive for Japanese Encephalitis in the district till date. The patients are undergoing treatment at different places, confirmed the Health Department in Golaghat.
The Joint Director of Health Services, Golaghat, Dr Abani Barthakur has urged the public not to panic as Japanese Encephalitis is under control. �This year the number of cases is very low in comparison to that of last year. Last year, a total of 33 cases were tested positive, while only eight Japanese Encephalitis cases have been confirmed so far.� Dr Barthakur also urged the people to take necessary remedial measures and get vaccinated at the health camps being organised in the district.
However, the public here have expressed their resentment over the measures being taken by the administration. They feel that the Health Department should take more effective steps to control the disease in the district.
