February 24, 2025: The World Health Organization (WHO) and Encephalitis International have launched a critical Technical Brief on Encephalitis in London, identifying the condition as an urgent global public health priority. The report highlights the increasing burden of encephalitis worldwide and calls for immediate action in prevention, diagnosis, treatment, and research.
Why Encephalitis is a Growing Concern
Encephalitis is a life-threatening brain inflammation that can result from infections (such as Japanese Encephalitis and Scrub Typhus) or autoimmune disorders where the immune system mistakenly attacks the brain. It can affect anyone, regardless of age, gender, or location, often leading to severe neurological damage or death.
According to WHO, encephalitis is particularly prevalent in low-to-middle-income countries (LMICs) due to limited healthcare resources, vaccine hesitancy, urbanization, climate change, and human encroachment on animal habitats.
Dr. Ava Easton, Chief Executive of Encephalitis International, emphasized the need for urgent investment, warning:
“Without urgent attention and investment, we will see more needless deaths and disabilities from encephalitis.”
Key Findings from the WHO Technical Brief
1. Encephalitis cases are rising globally, but the true burden remains unknown, especially in LMICs.
2. The condition leads to high mortality rates and long-term disabilities, including cognitive impairments, personality changes, epilepsy, and chronic fatigue.
3. Viral outbreaks of encephalitis are increasing, while autoimmune encephalitis cases are also on the rise.
4. Surveillance systems, vaccination programs, and improved health infrastructure are crucial for reducing its impact.
5. Public awareness and education are essential, as 77% of people do not know what encephalitis is, leading to delayed diagnosis and poorer outcomes.
A Call to Action
To support the WHO’s recommendations, Encephalitis International has launched the “Countdown to Change” pilot appeal, aiming to raise £50,000 by February 22, 2025. Donations will help fund initiatives to improve diagnosis, treatment, and aftercare worldwide.
Dr. Tarun Dua of WHO’s Brain Health Unit stressed:
“We must prioritize encephalitis within global and national health agendas, mobilizing resources and fostering collaboration to reduce its devastating impact.”
Symptoms and Challenges
1. Infectious Encephalitis: Fever, headache, altered consciousness, and behavioral changes.
2. Autoimmune Encephalitis: Memory problems, psychiatric symptoms, personality changes.
Despite medical advances, death rates remain high, and survivors often struggle with long-term cognitive and physical impairments. Treatment depends on the cause and may involve antiviral drugs for infections, immunotherapy for autoimmune cases, and supportive care for lasting effects.
The Road Ahead
The WHO report underscores that encephalitis is a serious but under-recognized health crisis. Strengthening research, public health policies, and early intervention strategies can significantly reduce its impact. By implementing these recommendations, global health systems can become more resilient, saving lives and improving outcomes for millions.
