Japanese Encephalitis

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine

Currently, two Japanese Encephalitis vaccines are available: JESPECT and IMOJEV.

JESPECT is an inactivated, cell culture-derived vaccine that is given as a 2-dose schedule, 28 days apart. It is currently only for use in those above 18 years of age. The duration of protection for JESPECT is currently unknown and is still being studied.

A booster dose is recommended 12 months after the initial course, in the event of continuing risk to Japanese Encephalitis.
IMOJEV is a live attenuated viral vaccine, that is given as a single dose and can be administered to children as young as 12 months old. It is likely to provide protection for more than 5 years.

Both JESPECT and IMOJEV are considered to have good protective efficacy, however, they are expensive compared to other travel vaccinations. Side effects of may include fever, headache or muscle aches in 10% of recipients.

  
      Age at Vaccination
      Vaccine
      Number of doses
      Booster
    

  
      > 2 months to      < 18 years
      JEspect
      2 doses
(28 days apart)  
      After 12 months if continuing risk
    

      > 9 months to < 18 years
      Imojev
      1 dose
      1-2 years after primary dose if ongoing risk of JE
    

      18 years
      Imojev
      1 dose
      Not required
    

      JEspect
      2 doses 
(28 days apart)
      1-2 years after primary dose if ongoing risk of JE virus exposure
    

Age at Vaccination	Vaccine	Number of doses	Booster
> 2 months to < 18 years	JEspect	2 doses (28 days apart)	After 12 months if continuing risk
> 9 months to < 18 years	Imojev	1 dose	1-2 years after primary dose if ongoing risk of JE
18 years	Imojev	1 dose	Not required
JEspect	2 doses (28 days apart)	1-2 years after primary dose if ongoing risk of JE virus exposure

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Japanese Encephalitis