Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine

About the vaccine

The Japanese Encephalitis vaccine is a crucial preventive measure against a potentially severe and life-threatening disease. Here’s a detailed description of how the vaccine is administered:

When to Get Vaccinated: It is recommended to receive the first dose of the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine ideally five weeks before planning to travel. This timing allows for the completion of the two-dose course before potential exposure to the virus.

Course: The vaccination course comprises two doses. The second dose is ideally administered 28 days after the first one. Full protection is achieved seven days after receiving the second dose.

Accelerated Course: In special cases where time is a constraint, an accelerated course is available. In this scenario, the first dose should be administered at least two weeks before traveling.

Boosters: The initial two doses provide protection for at least 12 months. To ensure prolonged immunity, a booster shot is required 12-24 months after the completion of the primary vaccination series.

How It Is Given: The vaccine is administered through an injection in the upper arm.

Side Effects: While the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine is generally safe, it may lead to side effects. Common reactions include digestive problems, a temporary increase in body temperature, and muscle pain. Some individuals may also experience soreness at the injection site.

Children: The vaccine is suitable for children and can be administered from the age of two months.

Additional Precautions: In addition to vaccination, it is crucial to practice mosquito bite avoidance. This includes using insect repellent, wearing long sleeves and pants, and avoiding peak mosquito activity times.

Risk if You Contract the Disease: Japanese encephalitis can lead to severe complications, including brain damage and death. Unfortunately, there is no cure for the disease, making prevention through vaccination and mosquito bite avoidance paramount for individuals traveling to areas where the virus is prevalent.

*(dependent on individual circumstances)

Prevention

Preventing Japanese Encephalitis (JE) involves minimizing the risk of exposure to the disease through measures such as avoiding insect bites, especially during the hours of dusk and dawn when Culex mosquitoes, the carriers of the virus, are most active

Illness

Japanese encephalitis manifests with symptoms like headaches, convulsions, encephalitis, and meningitis. While many individuals experience a mild illness with minimal or no symptoms, approximately 30% of those with severe cases may face lasting neurological issues, and an equal percentage succumb to the disease.

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