World Encephalitis Day

World Encephalitis Day 2024 on Thursday, the 22nd of February, is the global awareness day for people who have been directly or indirectly affected by encephalitis.

Since its launch, it has reached millions of people through media features, events and social media.

It is our hope that World Encephalitis Day will play a leading role in our mission to increase global awareness of encephalitis and therefore saving lives and building better futures.

World Encephalitis Day through the years

Get involved in World Encephalitis Day

There are many ways you can help us on World Encephalitis Day 2024.

Light up a Landmark - We want to light up landmarks around the world for World Encephalitis Day on the 22nd February - and we need you! Can you help? Get Involved

Go #Red4WED - On World Encephalitis Day, we ask supporters to wear something red and share photographs on their social media accounts. Find Out More

What is encephalitis?

Here are five facts about encephalitis:

Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain
It is caused by an infection or through the immune system attacking the brain
It can have a high death rate and survivors might be left with an acquired brain injury and life-changing consequences
Early diagnosis and treatment can save lives and improve outcomes
In some cases, encephalitis can impact mental health, causing difficult to deal with emotions and behaviours, and can lead to thoughts of self-harm and even suicide

Encephalitis facts and figures

Latest

Carly Skelton

Digital Engagement Manager
My Brain: My Gift - Godfrey's story

Godfrey Smith shares his story and why he supports the Encephalitis Society
Emma Collins

Patient and Public Involvement Manager
Challenge events near me

Do you want to take a challenge for the Encephalitis Society? Wherever you are in the world, we want to help!

NMDAR antibody encephalitis

NMDAR antibody encephalitis is an autoimmune disease that causes psychiatric features, confusion, memory loss and seizures followed by a movement disorder, loss of consciousness and changes in blood pressure, heart rate and temperature.
Herpes Simplex virus encephalitis

Herpes simplex encephalitis is a type of infectious encephalitis which happens when herpes simplex virus (HSV) enters the brain. Usually, it begins with ‘flu-like’ symptoms followed by neurological deterioration, which may include personality and behavioural changes, seizures, weakness and difficulties in communication.
What is encephalitis?

Encephalitis is an inflammation of the brain caused by an infection or through the immune system attacking the brain in error.
Guidelines for recovery

No two people with encephalitis have the same outcomes. People recover at different paces. Recovery can be helped by having lots of rest, good nutrition, helpful social network and support from professionals.
Limbic encephalitis

The term ‘limbic encephalitis’ (LE) describes the condition when limbic areas of the brain are inflamed (swollen) and consequently not functioning properly. Most forms of LE fall into two main categories: infectious encephalitis and autoimmune encephalitis.
Death from encephalitis

Encephalitis is a serious neurological condition and unfortunately, despite improvements in specific and more supportive treatments such as excellent intensive care management, encephalitis still has a high mortality (death) rate.
Encephalitis: after-effects, recovery and rehabilitation

This booklet provides key information about the type of issues that people may have after encephalitis, why rehabilitation/support from professionals and families are important and what options for self-help are available.
West Nile encephalitis

West Nile encephalitis is a type of infectious encephalitis caused by West Nile virus. People usually become infected after being bitten by a mosquito, which has fed on an infected bird.
Emotional and behavioural changes

Following encephalitis, some people may experience emotional and behavioural changes including low mood, increased anxiety, depression, mood swings, frustration, aggression, impulsivity, disinhibition, and/or poor emotional regulation.
Get support

Our Support Service is here to help you with any questions about encephalitis, recovery and rehabilitation or emotional support.