Assam is facing a serious public health challenge as cases of Japanese Encephalitis (JE), a mosquito-borne viral disease, continue to rise across the state. According to the National Centre for Vector Borne Diseases Control (NCVBDC), Assam recorded 389 cases and 72 deaths due to JE by September 2025, accounting for nearly half of India’s total reported burden.
The outbreak has expanded to 33 out of 35 districts, sparing only Dima Hasao and Hailakandi, reflecting an alarming geographical spread. Health experts warn that this marks a significant escalation compared to previous years.
Japanese Encephalitis primarily affects children and young adults and can lead to severe neurological complications, permanent disability, and high mortality rates. Assam’s rural, flood-prone landscape, dense mosquito populations, and the presence of intermediate hosts, such as pigs, have accelerated the virus’s transmission. Beyond its health impact, JE continues to disrupt education, reduce productivity, and impose heavy socio-economic burdens on families across the state.
The alarming rise in cases has drawn international attention through the research article titled “Japanese Encephalitis Crisis in Assam, India: Call for Targeted Action as Cases Surge Statewide.” The study underscores critical gaps in vaccination coverage, surveillance systems, and vector control strategies, and calls for urgent, targeted interventions to prevent further illness and fatalities. The research has been published in Transactions of the Royal Society of Tropical Medicine and Hygiene (London), a prestigious journal published by Oxford University Press and widely recognised as one of the world’s leading platforms for tropical medicine and global health research.
The study was led by Prof. (Dr.) Biswa Prasun Chatterji and Ms. Sabrina Sultana Rahman from Assam Down Town University. Ms Rahman is a faculty member at the university and a PhD scholar at Cotton University, holding a Master’s degree from Banaras Hindu University. Prof. (Dr.) Biswa Prasun Chatterji, a globally recognised academic and visiting professor who completed his PhD from IIT Bombay, has previously published research in the prestigious journal Nature, earning international acclaim for his scientific contributions. Together, their collaborative work reflects a strong commitment to advancing public health research and addressing pressing regional health challenges through globally informed scholarship.
Speaking on the findings, Ms. Rahman stated: “The data clearly shows that Japanese Encephalitis remains a major public health threat in Assam. Despite ongoing efforts, vaccination gaps and uneven surveillance coverage continue to leave vulnerable populations at risk. Immediate and targeted intervention is critical to prevent further loss of life.” Prof. (Dr.) Chatterji added: “Assam’s ecological and climatic conditions make it particularly susceptible to vector-borne diseases like JE. What is required now is a coordinated, evidence-based approach — strengthened immunisation drives, robust vector control measures, real-time surveillance, and sustained public awareness campaigns. Without integrated action, the burden could escalate further.”
The researchers have urged government agencies, healthcare institutions, policymakers, and community stakeholders to collaborate to implement comprehensive, evidence-based strategies. They emphasise that timely intervention, improved access to healthcare, and sustained preventive measures are essential to safeguard vulnerable communities and reduce avoidable deaths in the state.
