4 minutes | Thursday, 22 February 2018
Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain and is caused either by an infection invading the brain; or through the immune system attacking the brain in error.
The condition is indiscriminate, striking adults and children alike, showing no respect for age, gender, or ethnicity. Mortality rates are high and in those who survive many are left with an acquired brain injury, the degree and severity of which will vary. Their difficulties may include cognitive, physical, emotional, behavioural, or psychosocial consequences.
In the studio to discuss World Encephalitis Day is Rebecca Adlington and Chief Executive of the Encephalitis Society, Dr Ava Easton.