Changing perspectives in Japanese encephalitis in India.

Japanese encephalitis is a serious public health problem with significant mortality in children and old people. It occurs throughout much of Asia (43 000 cases worldwide per year). In recent years it has caused many epidemics in different parts of the country. In view of the high mortality and severe sequelae which often leaves behind highly dependent and disabled survivors, the disease is assuming great importance. A review of the pathogenesis, epidemiology, management and prevention together with changing perspectives in all these areas is presented.