Ulsan, First Discovery of Japanese Encephalitis Vector 'Jageunppalganjip Mosquito'

Health and Environment Research Institute Emphasizes Thorough Infection Prevention Including Child Vaccinations

The Japanese encephalitis vector mosquito, 'Jageunppalganjip mosquito'.

[Asia Economy Yeongnam Reporting Headquarters, Reporter Kim Yong-woo] The 'small red house mosquito,' a vector of Japanese encephalitis, has been discovered for the first time this year in Ulsan.

The Ulsan City Health and Environment Research Institute announced on the 25th that the small red house mosquito was found for the first time this year during the 'mosquito density survey' conducted on June 22.

The small red house mosquito is a small-bodied, dark brown mosquito that inhabits rice paddies, livestock barns, and puddles.

It carries the Japanese encephalitis virus, and although most people are asymptomatic when bitten, some may develop acute neurological symptoms such as high fever, headache, convulsions, and coma, requiring special caution.

To monitor infectious disease vectors, the Health and Environment Research Institute selected two livestock farms in the Ulsan area and has been conducting mosquito density surveys twice a week from April to October.

An official from the Health and Environment Research Institute said, "To prevent Japanese encephalitis, children aged 12 months to 12 years should receive vaccinations according to the standard immunization schedule, and households should install window screens and use mosquito nets to reduce contact with mosquitoes."

They added, "During outdoor activities, it is necessary to wear light-colored long clothing and use repellents to thoroughly manage and prevent mosquito bites."

Nationwide, the Korea Disease Control and Prevention Agency issued a 'Japanese Encephalitis Advisory' after the vector mosquito was first confirmed this year on March 24 in Jeju and Jeonnam regions.

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.