Encephalitis causes inflammation of the brain tissue, producing symptoms of high fever, headache, rigidity of the neck, loss of voice and involuntary movement of the body.

Authorities in some areas have conducted an encephalitis immunisation drive, besides fogging and spraying mosquito repellents to kill the vectors.

'People in Japanese encephalitis prone areas in the age group of one to 15 should take vaccination available at all government hospitals.' Gogoi said, adding: 'Prevention is the best way of dealing with Japanese encephalitis.'