Vaccine vs Japanese encephalitis launched

MANILA, Philippines - Aside from dengue and chikungunya, Japanese encephalitis (JE) is another serious disease that Filipinos should be aware of.

JE is also caused by mosquitoes (Culex species) infected with the JE virus. Like the two other diseases, it still has no treatment.  Fortunately, a vaccine against JE was recently launched by Sanofi Pasteur.

This is the first time a vaccine against JE is available in the Philippines. It provides rapid, high-level protection against JE with just one primary dose.

JE was first recognized in the late 1800s in Japan. Over time, it has spread across East and Southeast Asia where it is a leading cause of childhood viral encephalitis.

JE is difficult to diagnose because of its non-specific symptoms. Those who are infected may present flu-like symptoms like headaches, fever and fatigue. Children may experience nausea, vomiting and abdominal pain which can last from two to four days. 

The condition of patients can deteriorate rapidly, and can sometimes lead to death. Those who survive are often left in debilitating condition. Up to half suffer permanent neurological damage, such as paralysis, recurrent seizures or the inability to speak.

“Over half of people who survive a case of Japanese encephalitis experience longer-term psychosocial, behavioral or motor deficits. This can lead to complications such as learning difficulties, behavioral problems and more subtle neurological signs,” said Dr. Ruby Dizon, medical director of Sanofi Pasteur.

Because of the lack of treatment against the disease, vaccination is seen as the most viable solution against JE. 

“With a single primary vaccination, the vaccine could protect one from JE,” said Dizon, adding that tourists and business travelers, medical and military personnel as well as those living or staying in areas where cases have been detected would benefit from the immunization.

The vaccine was introduced during the 14th Philippine National Immunization Conference at Summit Ridge, Tagaytay City recently.

The event was attended by vaccine advocates from both private and public sectors aiming to sustain the reduction of vaccine-preventable diseases.