Jangseong County Intensifies Disinfection Efforts Following Japanese Encephalitis Alert

Disinfection Twice a Week in Vulnerable Areas, Blocking Larval Habitats
Preventive Vaccination for Children Under 12... Emphasis on Following Safety Guidelines

Jangseong County in Jeonnam announced on August 10 that it is focusing on intensive disinfection and larval control activities to prevent Japanese encephalitis infection.

A disinfection vehicle in Jangseong County, Jeonnam, is spraying insecticide along the roadside to control mosquitoes during the summer season. Provided by Jangseong County

Japanese encephalitis is a viral disease transmitted by the Culex tritaeniorhynchus mosquito, which can cause severe encephalitis, including high fever, convulsions, and coma. As the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency issued a nationwide Japanese encephalitis alert on August 1, Jangseong County is conducting disinfection twice a week, focusing on areas vulnerable to infection. Larval habitats such as sewers and septic tanks are also being thoroughly treated.

Preventive vaccination is being carried out in parallel. Children under the age of 12 are eligible for the national Japanese encephalitis vaccination program, while high-risk adults, such as those planning to visit regions where the disease is endemic overseas, should consult nearby hospitals or clinics for paid vaccination services. Vaccination schedules and information on medical institutions can be found at the Jangseong County Public Health Center or on the Vaccination Helper website.

It is also important to follow preventive guidelines to avoid mosquito bites. People should refrain from outdoor activities at night, and if unavoidable, wear light-colored long-sleeved clothing. Mosquito repellent should be applied to exposed areas such as the ears, neck, and ankles, and window screens at home should be checked to ensure there are no holes.

A county official stated, "As the number of mosquitoes is expected to increase due to rising temperatures after rainfall, we are implementing thorough field disinfection." The official also urged residents to take precautions against mosquito bites when traveling abroad, and to seek immediate medical attention at a nearby hospital if any suspicious symptoms occur.