The measures include ensuring hygienic conditions and clean water supply in the areas, where such cases have been reported.

Recently, the National Institute of Virology had concluded that cases of AES, being reported from Gorakhpur and nearby areas, were caused by enteroviruses.

During the last week, nearly 10 children have succumbed to the disease, taking the toll to 138 this year. So far, over 700 children have been affected. More than 100 patients are at present admitted to the BRD Medical College in Gorakhpur. According to sources, nearly three patients are in a serious condition.

“Since there have been a few cases of Japanese Encephalitis (JE) this year, we have instructed CMOs to ensure preventive measures along with the usual preventive techniques like fogging for vector-borne disease,” said Dr V S Nigam, Joint Director, Communicable Disease wing of the Health department.

Researchers from National Institute of Brain Research in Haryana had found minocycline as one of the probable antibiotics that can be used for treatment of JE. They had had recommended B R D Medical College to conduct trials.