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)