Nationwide Japanese Encephalitis Advisory... Small Red House Mosquito Confirmed in Jeju and Jeonnam

[Asia Economy Reporter Cho Hyun-ui] The Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency announced on the 26th that the first Japanese encephalitis vector mosquito of the year, the 'small red house mosquito,' was collected (March 24) in Jeju and Jeonnam regions, prompting a nationwide Japanese encephalitis advisory.

The Japanese encephalitis advisory is issued each year when the Japanese encephalitis vector mosquito is first detected during the Japanese encephalitis epidemic prediction period (March to November).

This year's issuance of the Japanese encephalitis advisory came about two weeks earlier than last year. It is estimated to be due to the average temperatures in January and February in southern regions such as Jeju and Jeonnam rising by 2.3 to 2.6℃ compared to the normal years.

When bitten by a small red house mosquito carrying the Japanese encephalitis virus, more than 99% of cases show no symptoms or only mild symptoms accompanied by fever, but some cases can progress to acute encephalitis. Encephalitis can result in death in 20 to 30% of cases.

Japanese encephalitis can be prevented by vaccination, so children aged 12 months to 12 years who are eligible for the national immunization program should receive vaccinations according to the standard schedule.

Jung Eun-kyung, head of the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency, stated, “Since the activity of Japanese encephalitis vector mosquitoes has begun, we ask that people follow mosquito avoidance and control guidelines during outdoor activities and at home.”