On multiple logistic regression analysis, the combination of IFN-α and IL-6 together fitted the model best of all and remained after backward selection with AUC 0.99 (CI 0.97–1.00) [odds ratio (OR) for log (IL-6log): 122 (CI 1.9->999), P 0.024; OR for log (IFN-α) log: 124 (CI 3.5->999), P 0.008] to predict inflammation in encephalitis. This evidence concerns the gene IFNA1 and viral encephalitis.