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Overview Encephalitis, defined as inflammation of the brain, can arise from infections transmitted by mosquito bites. Mosquitoes act as vectors for arboviruses—pathogens capable of causing significant inflammation and damage to brain tissue. Another major cause of encephalitis is Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV) , which exists in two types: HSV-1 and HSV-2. Although commonly associated with mild oral or genital lesions in healthy individuals, HSV can occasionally invade the central nervous system (CNS), leading to herpes simplex encephalitis (HSE) —a rare but life-threatening condition. HSE results in acute inflammation of brain tissue and may present with confusion, seizures, focal neurological deficits, and altered consciousness. If untreated, it can lead to permanent brain damage or death. When both the brain and meninges are involved, the condition is termed herpes meningoencephalitis . Pathway to the Brain After entering the body through mucosal surfaces, HSV establishes lifelong ...