World Encephalitis Day

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

Since its launch ten years ago, it has reached over 295 million people through media features, events and social media.

Working alongside other partner organisations such as Encephalitis411, 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

Three ways to get involved

There are three main ways you can help us on World Encephalitis Day 2023.

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

BrainWalk - Why not join our BrainWalk fundraising challenge and walk, jog, or run as many steps as you can during February? Find out More

Light up a Landmark - We are aiming to light up landmarks around the world for World Encephalitis Day on the 22nd February. Can you help? Get Involved

What is encephalitis?

Here are five facts about encephalitis:

  1. Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain
  2. It is caused by an infection or through the immune system attacking the brain
  3. It can have a high death rate and survivors might be left with an acquired brain injury and life-changing consequences
  4. Early diagnosis and treatment can save lives and improve outcomes
  5. 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