'Japanese Encephalitis Alert'... First Discovery of 'Jageunppalganjip Mosquito' in Gangwon-do

Eliminate Larval Habitats (Stagnant Water) and Follow Mosquito Avoidance and Control Guidelines

Jageunbbalganjipmogi [Asia Economy DB]

[Asia Economy Reporter Ra Young-cheol] For the first time this year in Gangwon-do, the Japanese encephalitis vector mosquito, 'Jageunppalganjipmogi' (small red house mosquito), has been found.

The Gangwon-do Health and Environment Research Institute announced on the 18th that "one 'Jageunppalganjipmogi,' which transmits Japanese encephalitis, was collected among mosquitoes captured in the second week of July (week 29)." It was also confirmed in a similar period last year, in the third week of July (week 29).

The province is conducting a 'Japanese Encephalitis and Malaria Vector Mosquito Surveillance Project' targeting a total of 11 sites in 8 regions (Chuncheon, Gangneung, Hoengseong, Goseong, Cheorwon, Yanggu, Hwacheon, Inje) to investigate changes in the distribution and density of infectious disease vector mosquitoes and pathogen infection status.

According to health authorities, the 'Jageunppalganjipmogi' is a small, dark brown mosquito inhabiting rice paddies, animal barns, and puddles, and mainly feeds at night.

When bitten by a mosquito carrying the Japanese encephalitis virus, most cases are asymptomatic, but clinical symptoms appear in about 1 in 250 people, which can progress to fatal acute encephalitis, with 20-30% of these cases resulting in death.

Vector mosquitoes generally increase from June in southern regions (Jeju, Busan, Gyeongnam, etc.) and are observed throughout South Korea, with density peaking from July to September and observed until the end of October.

Last year, 23 Japanese encephalitis patients were reported nationwide, with one case occurring in Gangwon-do.

As of July 15 this year, no Japanese encephalitis cases have been reported, but since this is the period when vector mosquito density increases, special caution is required.

Therefore, during outdoor activities, minimize skin exposure and keep the surrounding environment clean by eliminating standing water around homes. At home, follow mosquito control guidelines to prevent mosquito bites.

Lee Soon-won, Director of the Health and Environment Research Institute, urged, "Since there is no specific treatment for Japanese encephalitis, children aged 12 months to 12 years and adults living in areas with a high presence of Japanese encephalitis vector mosquitoes should get vaccinated."

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