Udaipur, April 8: The increasing cases of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) have raised alarms within the health department of the Mewar division. Following the confirmation of seven new cases among children, the department has entered a state of high alert. So far, five children have succumbed to the illness, with two of the new cases reported from Chittorgarh district. All affected children are currently receiving treatment at MB Hospital in Udaipur.
In light of the serious situation, all doctors and health workers in the division have had their leaves cancelled immediately. Additionally, all Chief Medical and Health Officers who were attending a meeting with the Medical Minister in Jaipur have been instructed to return to their respective districts without delay. Udaipur’s Chief Medical and Health Officer, Dr. Ashok Aditya, has also been called back.
Immediate Hospitalization Urged for Symptomatic Children
Dr. Ashok Aditya has urged that children exhibiting symptoms such as fever accompanied by convulsions and vomiting should be brought to the nearest hospital without delay. Dr. R.L. Suman, the Superintendent of MB Hospital, assured that adequate treatment facilities are available and that the hospitalized children are currently stable.
Door-to-Door Surveys Initiated
To prevent further spread of the infection, Auxiliary Nurse Midwives (ANMs) and Accredited Social Health Activists (ASHAs) have been tasked with conducting door-to-door surveys. Teams have been instructed to identify children with fever and neurological symptoms and connect them with medical facilities promptly.
Administration on High Alert
According to the health department, AES is a serious illness that can spread rapidly. Timely identification and treatment are the most effective measures for prevention. The administration has also appealed to the public not to ignore any symptoms and to seek medical advice immediately.