In order to prevent transmission of Japanese encephalitis, a nationwide Japanese encephalitis vaccination program for children will begin on March 1, 2009. Taiwan CDC urges parents to get their 15-month toddlers vaccinated at the local health station or hospital.

According to the past epidemiological data, Japanese encephalitis transmission season in Taiwan occurs annually between May and October. The peak transmission usually occurs between June and July.

Japanese encephalitis vaccine has been proven the most effective in preventing Japanese encephalitis. To maximize the effect of prevention, vaccination is mostly available from March to May every year.

Local health stations will consult with schools to arrange on-site vaccination for elementary school students.

Taiwan CDC reminds parents to have their children vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis on time.

The incubation period for Japanese encephalitis is generally 5-15 days. The majority of cases have no symptom. A few cases have mild clinical symptoms, including headache, fever, malaise, the signs and symptoms of meningeal involvement, or cognitive disorders and mental symptoms. In severe cases, convulsion, disorientation, stupor, coma, and even death may occur.

A 2-dose regimen for routine childhood Japanese encephalitis vaccination is recommended for all toddlers aged 15 months and the 2 doses should be given two weeks apart. A booster dose should be given one year after the 2-dose primary vaccination. A second booster should be administered when the child attends first grade at elementary school.

For more information about Japanese encephalitis, please visit the Taiwan CDC website at http://www.cdc.gov.tw or dial the toll-free hotline, 1922, operated by Taiwan CDC.