A Descriptive Study to Assess the Knowledge Regarding Japanese Encephalitis Among the Parents Attending Immunization Clinic at AIIMS, Patna, Bihar

Abstract

Statement of the Problem: Descriptive Study To Assess The Knowledge Regarding Japanese Encephalitis Among The Parents Attending Immunisation Clinic At Aiims, Patna Background of the Study: Virulent encephalitis in Asia is caused primarily by the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV). Dengue, yellow fever, and West Nile viruses are mosquito-borne flaviviruses of the same genus. It was documented that the first case of Japanese encephalitis viral disease (JE) occurred in Japan in 1871. Within endemic countries, clinical disease incidences range from 1 to more than 10 per 100,000 people during outbreaks across the country. Globally, there are approximately 13 600 to 20 400 deaths related to JE each year, according to a literature review. Children are the most affected by JE. People of all ages may be affected by endemic diseases in endemic countries because they have natural immunity from childhood infections. It was called "summer encephalitis" when Japanese Encephalitis was first reported in 1871. It is generally not known why people get infected with the Japanese Encephalitis virus, but some experience mild to severe symptoms, including headaches and fever, as well as serious brain infections like encephalitis. Objectives of the Study 1) To assess the knowledge regarding Japanese encephalitis among the parents attending immunization clinic. 2) To find the association between the knowledge regarding Japanese Encephalitis and selected demographic variables Hypothesis H1– There will a significant association between the knowledge and the selected demographic variables. Conclusion: The study reveals that there is a strong need for routine awareness program by the government and all-time availability of information, education and communication strategies are some of the necessary steps to achieve higher vaccination rates against Japanese encephalitis.