Health and Family Welfare Minister M Ampareen Lyngdoh informed the assembly on Wednesday that Meghalaya detected 147 cases of Japanese Encephalitis (JE) between April 2024 and March 2025, up from 89 cases reported in the previous year. She assured the House that the government is dealing with the situation with utmost seriousness to prevent the disease from becoming “deadly.”
District-Wise Case Distribution
Lyngdoh highlighted the district-wise spread of JE cases between April 2023 and March 2024.
- West Jaintia Hills recorded the highest number with 49 cases.
- East Khasi Hills followed with 29 cases, while Ri-Bhoi reported 25 cases.
- East Jaintia Hills registered 22 cases, Eastern West Khasi Hills 10, and West Khasi Hills five.
- South West Khasi Hills reported four cases, South West Garo Hills two, and South Garo Hills just one case.
This district-wise breakdown shows that JE is present across multiple regions, though West Jaintia Hills remains the most affected.
Government Steps Up Vaccination Efforts
Responding to queries from opposition member Miani D Shira of the Trinamool Congress, Lyngdoh said the government is actively promoting vaccination. Under the Routine Immunisation Programme of the National Health Mission, authorities are working to check the spread of JE. They are also focused on protecting vulnerable populations.
Serious Approach to Disease Prevention
As reported by TOI, the minister reiterated that the government’s priority is to prevent any escalation of Japanese Encephalitis cases. By focusing on vaccination and surveillance, officials aim to curb outbreaks and safeguard public health.