Professor Benedict Michael, Director of the Liverpool Interdisciplinary Neuroscience Centre (LINC), has played a key role in a crucial new technical brief on encephalitis, published by the World Health Organisation (WHO).
Encephalitis is a serious, life-threatening neurological condition characterised by inflammation of the brain. In the UK alone, approximately 6,000 cases are reported each year, while global figures may reach into the hundreds of thousands, particularly in densely populated, under-resourced regions with high levels of human-animal interaction. Crucially, encephalitis is the third leading cause of disability in children globally.
Launched on World Encephalitis Day 2025, the WHO brief marks a significant milestone in international efforts to address the neurological condition, which claims up to 40% of lives depending on its cause. It also highlights critical gaps in access to essential care, particularly in low- and middle-income countries.
More than 100 experts including academics, clinicians, and researchers have collaborated to develop the brief. Among them was Professor Michael, along with Liverpool colleagues Professor Tom Solomon and Dr Ava Easton, whose expertise in neuroinflammation and brain infections has long been recognised.
Professor Michael commented: "This is a landmark moment. Not only does it put encephalitis on the map and show that the WHO sees this as a key focus, but it also lays out the public health, clinical and research priorities which will shape the future and ultimately save lives."
Read the full technical brief on the WHO website and watch the launch here.