Jorhat: Encephalitis epidemic has already claimed five lives in Jorhat district so far. According to the medical sources, total 17 encephalitis cases had been reported in six PHCs under Jorhat district with, Baghchung being the worst affected. Anna Ain, a 6-year-old girl was the first victim of encephalitis. After her, Champa Mirdha(18), Biren Gogoi(50) from Timtmia under Baghchung PHC, Ruhit Rabidas(40) and Pranjal Mahanta from Dhekiajuli under Baghchung PHC died from encephalitis. Eight cases encephalitis have been reported from the Baghchung area, two from Titabor and Kakajan each, one from Solmora, three from Kamalabari Majuli. They are presently undergoing treatment. It may be mentioned that out of seven PHCs under the district, no case has been reported so far from Bhogamukh PHC. Considering the grave situation, the medical department of the district today opened a control room for encephalitis and malaria, through which any patient could directly contact the district head in this respect. Moreover, the health department also deputed several field workers to visit the flood affected areas and asked them to submit a field report on a daily basis. Besides, a four member team of doctors have also been instructed to visit the flood affected areas so that the outbreak does not spread any further.The malaria department also distributed mosquito nets, halogen tablets for purification of water and phenol in the flood affected areas as precautionary measure.