Encephalitis can look like a common disease; experts urge the public to read “FLAMES”

Encephalitis International on Monday launched a new awareness tool to help Filipinos easily recognize the early warning signs of encephalitis, a disease that, if detected late, can lead to severe disability or death.

Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain, which affects three people every minute worldwide, the organization said in a statement.

However, about eight out of ten adults are unaware of the condition, as its early symptoms may only resemble common illnesses.

According to the World Health Organization, encephalitis is the leading cause of loss of neurological health in children under the age of five and a growing public health concern at all ages.

Although rare, it causes severe brain damage and long-term disability, and survivors face lasting cognitive, emotional, behavioral, and physical challenges that interfere with daily life.

Dr. Ava Easton, chief executive of Encephalitis International, said encephalitis is developing rapidly, yet public awareness is still dangerously low.

“If the warning signs are missed, the diagnosis is delayed, and the risk of death or lifelong disability rises. Early recognition is one of the most effective ways to protect brain health and save lives,” said Ms. Easton.

To close the gap between early symptoms and accurate diagnosis, Encephalitis International is launching FLAMES, an awareness tool that uses an acronym to highlight the most urgent signs of the condition.

These include (F) flu-like symptoms, (L) loss of consciousness, (A) headache, (M) memory problems, (E) emotional and behavioral changes, and (S) seizures. These symptoms apply to both infectious and autoimmune encephalitis and indicate the need for immediate attention.

A systematic reminder tool was launched ahead of World Encephalitis Day on 22 Feb. and can be used in both clinical settings and public awareness campaigns.

If encephalitis is detected early, treatment can begin quickly and the chances of recovery are better, said Dr. Ferron F. Ocampo, a specialist in neurodegenerative diseases and neuroinfectious diseases.

“Strengthening awareness of symptoms in communities and among leading providers is important,” said Mr. Camp.

In a low- to middle-income country like the Philippines, this strategy is essential, as the disease burden is exacerbated by limited neurological services and limited access to treatment and medication, the organization said.

According to the World Health Organization, Japanese virus Encephalitis (JE), which is transmitted by mosquitoes, is the main cause of viral encephalitis in many Asian countries, including the Philippines.

JE cases in the country reached 1,532 in 2020 and 988 in 2021, and the incidence was 0.7 per 100,000 children under the age of 15, the highest in the northern region of the country.

Starting in 2019, the Department of Health (DOH) has issued vaccinations for children aged nine months to under five in areas with high JE.

Encephalitis International encourages both general and non-professional health care providers to use the FLAMES strategy.

Communities are also encouraged to learn and share awareness of the warning signs to reduce death and disability caused by encephalitis. – Edg Adrian A. Eva