Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES)

Context

Rising temperature and humidity reignite fears of Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES) outbreak in Bihar’s Muzaffarpur.

What is AES?

• AES is a broad term involving several infections, and affects young children. 
• The syndrome can be caused by viruses, bacteria or fungi. In India, the most common cause is the virus that causes Japanese encephalitis (JE). 
• The first AES case was recorded in 1995 in Muzaffarpur. Eastern UP too sees frequent outbreaks. 

Hypoglycaemia

• Hypoglycaemia is a commonly seen sign among patients of AES, and the link has been the subject of research over the years.
• The combination of AES with hypoglycaemia is unique to Muzaffarpur, Vietnam and Bangladesh.
• Hypoglycaemia is not a symptom but a sign of AES. 
• This hypoglycaemia is caused by malnourishment and lack of proper diet.