15-year-old boy dies of Japanese Encephalitis in IE

A 15-year-old boy from Phaknung Awang Leikai in Imphal East district has died of Japanese Encephalitis (JE), officials confirmed on Wednesday. The deceased has been identified as Khundongbam Elan, son of Khundongbam Ibomcha.
Elan tested positive for JE on August 2 at the Jawaharlal Nehru Institute of Medical Sciences (JNIMS) in Imphal and succumbed to the infection on August 4 while undergoing treatment, according to a statement issued by the Phaknung Social Youths’ Club (PSYC).
In the wake of the incident, PSYC and the Phaknung Awang Leikai Youth Development Association (PHALYDA), in coordination with the Vector Borne Disease Control Programme, Imphal East, conducted fogging operations across Phaknung Awang Leikai and nearby areas to control the spread of mosquito-borne diseases.
Health department data reveals that since January 1, 2025, Manipur has recorded 138 cases of dengue, 10 cases of Japanese Encephalitis, and 61 cases of malaria. The death of the minor has raised concerns over rising cases of vector-borne diseases in the state, prompting calls for intensified preventive measures.