As the monsoon season unfolds, doctors are sounding alarms about a significant increase in brain infections across India’s coastal and rice belt regions. The combination of high humidity and increased mosquito breeding has led to a surge in cases of viral encephalitis and other brain infections, posing severe risks, especially to children and the elderly.
Brain infections, also known as encephalitis, occur when the brain becomes inflamed due to infections caused by bacteria, viruses, fungi, or parasites. These infections can result in severe inflammation and damage to brain tissues, causing a range of neurological symptoms. While brain infections are relatively rare in developed countries, they remain a major public health issue in South Asia, particularly in India. The monsoon season creates ideal conditions for mosquito breeding, which in turn increases the incidence of mosquito-borne viral infections such as dengue and Japanese encephalitis.
Recent data from The Lancet Global Health highlights that coastal regions such as Karnataka and Odisha, northeastern states like Assam and Tripura, and rice belt areas in northern states such as Bihar and Uttar Pradesh are endemic zones for viral encephalitis in India.
Dr. Sanjay Pandey, Head of Neurology and Stroke Medicine at Amrita Hospital in Faridabad, explains, “Brain infections can be viral, bacterial, tubercular, fungal, or protozoal. Common symptoms include fever, headache, vomiting, seizures, and altered consciousness. Children and senior citizens are particularly vulnerable due to their weaker immune systems. Parents should be vigilant for symptoms like rashes and loss of consciousness in their children during this season. Early intervention is crucial for managing these infections effectively and improving patient outcomes. Preventing mosquito breeding and protecting against mosquito bites are essential steps. If untreated, viral encephalitis can lead to severe neurological conditions such as parkinsonism, dystonia, and tremor.”
In India, treatments for brain infections vary depending on the type and cause of the infection. Bacterial infections are typically treated with antibiotics, while antiviral medications are used for viral infections such as Japanese encephalitis and dengue. Tubercular brain infections require prolonged anti-tuberculosis drug regimens, and fungal infections are treated with antifungal medications. Supportive care, including anti-seizure drugs, corticosteroids to reduce inflammation, and hospitalization, is often necessary. Advanced cases may require intensive care and surgical interventions. Access to these treatments is more comprehensive in urban centers compared to rural areas.
