Patna: Rising temperatures across Bihar have triggered fresh concerns over Acute Encephalitis Syndrome (AES), commonly referred to as ‘Chamki Bukhar’, with two to three affected children arriving daily at the Pediatrics Department of Patna Medical College and Hospital (PMCH).
According to the Health Department, one child died from Japanese Encephalitis (JE) in March this year, while three JE cases were reported in April. At the same time, AES cases have continued to emerge steadily in different parts of the state.
Children suffering from AES are being admitted regularly for treatment at PMCH, hospital officials said. They stated that timely medical intervention has helped ensure recovery in most cases, with children returning home healthy after treatment.
He added that special monitoring arrangements have been implemented at the hospital to oversee the treatment and condition of affected children.
Doctors Warn Against Delay in Treatment
Medical experts have described AES as a potentially serious condition for children, particularly during periods of intense heat. Common symptoms include high fever, vomiting, body convulsions, unconsciousness, lethargy, and persistent weakness.
Doctors said delayed treatment can rapidly worsen the patient’s condition and increase the risk of complications.
Experts appealed to parents to seek immediate medical assistance if children show symptoms such as fever, vomiting, tremors, dizziness, or signs of unconsciousness.
He said early diagnosis and treatment significantly improve the chances of recovery.
Heatstroke Cases Also Being Reported
Doctors at PMCH said hospitals are also witnessing cases of heatstroke among children as temperatures continue to rise across Bihar.
Health experts have advised parents not to allow children outdoors between 11 am and 4 pm, when heat exposure is at its peak. They have recommended ensuring children remain hydrated through water, ORS, lemon water, and homemade fluids.
Parents have also been asked not to send children outdoors on an empty stomach and to provide light but nutritious meals during the day.
Doctors advised the use of light-coloured cotton clothing and covering children’s heads with caps, cloths, or umbrellas while stepping outside.
Health Department Issues Alert Across Districts
The Bihar Health Department has placed districts on alert and directed hospitals to ensure adequate availability of medicines and beds for AES and JE patients.
Awareness campaigns are also being conducted in rural and urban areas to educate families about preventive measures and early symptoms of AES and heatstroke.
Doctors further cautioned against keeping children in poorly ventilated rooms for extended periods and advised parents not to feed stale or uncovered food to children during the summer months.
They also warned against giving very cold water immediately after children return from exposure to the sun, stating that young children and newborns remain especially vulnerable to heat-related illnesses.
