The first case of Japanese encephalitis has been confirmed in Yunlin County this year, involving a male patient in his 60s living in Beigang who has no history of domestic or international travel. His primary activities are around his residence.

The Yunlin County Health Bureau has swiftly initiated an epidemiological investigation and preventive measures, urging the public to actively take mosquito prevention measures and get vaccinated as mandated, especially since this is the peak period for the outbreak.

Deputy Director Zhang Yijun of the Health Bureau stated that the patient began showing symptoms such as general malaise, fever, and vomiting on June 23, and was reported to the hospital on June 26, after which he was tested and confirmed to have Japanese encephalitis by the Centers for Disease Control on June 30. The patient is currently hospitalized, and no symptoms have been reported among the three family members living with him.

Environmental investigations revealed that there are high-risk areas such as pig farms within three kilometers of the patient's residence, and mosquito surveillance and prevention campaigns have been intensified.

The incubation period for Japanese encephalitis is approximately 5 to 15 days. Most infections are asymptomatic, but when symptoms do appear, they can include fever, headache, vomiting, and in severe cases, confusion, altered mental status, coma, or even death. The main vectors for transmission are Culex tritaeniorhynchus, Culex pipiens quinquefasciatus, and Aedes albopictus, with peak activity occurring in the early morning and evening.

The Health Bureau advises the public to avoid entering high-risk environments during the early morning or evening hours and to enhance mosquito prevention measures, such as wearing light-colored long-sleeved clothing and using mosquito repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or IR-3535.

The period from May to October is the peak season for Japanese encephalitis, with the highest incidence occurring from June to July. Households with young children should ensure that vaccinations are completed on schedule. Adults needing to enter high-risk areas such as pig farms are advised to receive vaccinations at their own expense to enhance protection.

Healthcare facilities are also urged to remain vigilant, enhance reporting of suspected cases, and assist health authorities in monitoring the epidemic situation to prevent the spread of the outbreak and protect community safety.