Japanese encephalitis claims two lives in Manipur

Japanese encephalitis has claimed two lives so far in Manipur while over 20 persons are in hospital, officials said on Thursday.

According to official sources, a Manipuri woman from Bishnupur district identified as A. Sangeeta, 34, was the first victim to have died from the disease on Wednesday.

Another person, identified as T. Donglianpau from Churachandpur district died of the mosquito-borne disease at the Regional Institute of Medical Sciences, which is run by the Central government. He worked as a school teacher.

Health Director Okram Ibomcha said that adequate steps are being taken to cope with the outbreak of the disease. Besides opening screening centres, fogging is being done on a massive scale.

The situation is aggravated by clogged drains and low lying areas which are inundated by rain water in the past few weeks, he added.

Manipur Health Minister D.K. Korungthang has directed health officials to closely monitor the situation and take preventive measures.

--IANS

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