Encephalitis is inflammation of the brain, caused by either an infection or the immune system attacking the brain in error.

Worldwide, someone is affected every 20 seconds. Encephalitis is a thief. Depending on the cause, even with treatment, up to 4 in 10 people affected will die. For the families of those who survive it often robs them of the person they once knew.

Despite this, 77% of people have never heard of encephalitis.

This year’s World Encephalitis Day Appeal is dedicated to amplifying the voices and experiences of people whose lives have been changed forever by encephalitis.

We aim to raise awareness by sharing powerful personal stories - from survivors rebuilding their lives to families navigating loss and uncertainty - and the symptoms of encephalitis.