Both viruses cause viral encephalitis. Even though the number of confirmed JE cases have been reduced, the control measures will still be in place. Control measures for the Nipah virus will have to be stepped up especially among the high risk groups. The ministry will doing everything possible to ensure that the nation's health is protected. We have to be prepared for emerging organisms which before this had not showed signs of virulence.
Man has to be vigilant and be prepared for anything.
It is however difficult to anticipate everything. The best we can do is to act promptly and put into effect appropriate public health measures and treat cases actively when there are signs of an impending outbreak while waiting for confirmation of what the agent is and the exact cause of the outbreak. This is what the ministry has done during the present outbreak and all that we have done has been fully supported by the WHO as shown in its press release on March 25. All rights reserved.