At least 14 children have died in the past one week due to Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) in Muzaffarpur district of Bihar. According to officials of
Sri Krishna Medical College and Hospital (SKMCH), 38 patients were admitted at the hospital out of 14 have died and the condition of some others are still stated to be serious.
“Total 38 patients were admitted, of which there are 14 casualties. Some of the admitted patients still have high fever,” Sunil Shahi, Superintendent SKMCH, Muzaffarpur said.
According to District Civil Surgeon SP Singh, most patients were brought in with high fever and hypoglycemia (a condition caused by a very low level of blood sugar (glucose)).
“All primary health centres in the district have been put on high alert.
But the people need to be cautious about their children as well. Give them as much liquid as you can and keep them hydrated,” Singh was quoted said.
SKMCH pediatrician Dr GS Sahni said, “In children, the symptoms of AES are high fever, body stiffness and loss of consciousness. We’re informing the public to be aware of these symptoms.”
AES outbreaks are a routine in areas in and around Muzaffarpur in the summer months.
The epidemic mostly affects children from poor families below 15 years of age.