Vaccination Guidelines for Children: Protecting Against Japanese Encephalitis

Vaccine administration

Hello, Dr.
Chang.
I would like to ask:
1.
Currently, it is the epidemic period for Japanese encephalitis, but children must be at least fifteen months old to receive the vaccine.
How can we prevent infection in children around one year old who cannot be vaccinated? Also, why is it mandated that vaccination can only occur after fifteen months of age?
2.
My younger sister will turn fifteen months old in mid-September this year.
Does this mean she can only receive the vaccine next year, or can she be vaccinated as soon as she turns fifteen months?
3.
For children around one year old, besides the vaccines mandated by the health insurance handbook, are there any recommended vaccines that can be self-paid for, which would provide better health protection for the baby?

ann-ma, 30~39 year old female. Ask Date: 2003/07/16

Dr. Zhang Peixin reply Pediatrics

Hello! 1.
Children must be at least 15 months old to receive the vaccine, but they can be vaccinated as early as 14 months.
Infants still have maternal antibodies, which provide some protective effect.
2.
The Japanese encephalitis vaccine is administered seasonally, specifically from March to May each year, to ensure sufficient antibody protection before the outbreak season.
Therefore, if a girl turns 15 months old in September, it is recommended to wait until next year for vaccination.
3.
A one-year-old child can still receive the varicella vaccine at their own expense.
If they have not received the Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine, consideration can be given to self-paying for two doses of the Hib vaccine.
Best wishes for health from Dr.
Chang Pei-Hsin, Director of Pediatrics, Taoyuan Hospital, Ministry of Health and Welfare.

Reply Date: 2003/07/16

More Info

Vaccination is a crucial aspect of public health, especially for children, who are more vulnerable to various infectious diseases. In the case of Japanese Encephalitis (JE), it is important to understand the vaccination guidelines and preventive measures, particularly during the peak transmission periods.
1. Vaccination Timing and Recommendations: The Japanese Encephalitis vaccine is typically recommended for children starting at 15 months of age. This age requirement is based on several factors, including the maturation of the child's immune system and the presence of maternal antibodies. Infants under 15 months may still have passive immunity from their mothers, which can provide some level of protection against infections. However, this immunity wanes over time, and as children grow, their immune systems become more capable of responding to vaccines.
For children who are younger than 15 months, the best preventive measure is to minimize exposure to mosquitoes, which are the primary vectors for the JE virus. Parents can take steps such as using mosquito nets, applying insect repellent safe for children, and ensuring that living areas are free from standing water where mosquitoes breed.
2. Vaccination Schedule: If your child turns 15 months in mid-September, they can receive the vaccine as soon as they reach that age. There is no need to wait until the following year. It is advisable to consult with your pediatrician to schedule the vaccination promptly after your child turns 15 months. This ensures that they are protected before the peak season for JE, which typically occurs in warmer months when mosquito populations are higher.

3. Additional Vaccinations: Besides the mandatory vaccinations listed in the health insurance manual, parents may consider additional vaccines that can provide further protection for their children. For instance, the varicella (chickenpox) vaccine is recommended for children around the age of one, as chickenpox can lead to serious complications. Additionally, if your child has not yet received the Haemophilus influenzae type b (Hib) vaccine, it is advisable to consider it, as it protects against bacterial infections that can lead to meningitis and pneumonia.

In summary, while the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine is not available for children under 15 months, parents can take preventive measures to protect their children from mosquito bites. Once the child reaches the appropriate age, vaccination should be prioritized to ensure timely protection against the virus. Furthermore, considering additional vaccines can enhance your child's overall health and immunity against various diseases. Always consult with a healthcare provider to tailor a vaccination schedule that best suits your child's health needs and local epidemiological factors.

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