Public warned on encephalitis

Public warned on encephalitis

DENPASAR, Bali: A local health official have warned the public to situate pig pens at a safe distance away from their living quarters, in order to prevent the spread of "brain infections".

Wayan Semendra said yesterday that pigs are the host for the virus that causes infection of the brain, known as Japanese Encephalitis, which is then passed along to humans through mosquito bites.

The symptoms of the disease include headache, muscle pain, fever and certain cramps which causes difficulties in speaking, Antara reported.

In Indonesia, the disease has yet to be included in the top list of infections to be eradicated because of its low prevalence, Semendra said.

"This doesn't mean we don't take any precautions against the disease," Semendra said. "Our office is currently conducting research on it."

Many Balinese people breed pigs and let them roam freely in their housing compounds. (swe)