Trial test for new Japanese Encephalitis vaccine

Nadira Gunatilleke

COLOMBO: The Healthcare and Nutrition Ministry has commenced a trial to test whether a new vaccine for Japanese Encephalitis (JE) imported from China can be used in Sri Lanka in order to cut down on the high cost and delay in importing this vaccine from Thailand, Healthcare and Nutrition Ministry spokesman said.

He said that the Government spent Rs. 270 million to import this vaccine last year and one vaccine cost Rs.6,043. A developing country like Sri Lanka cannot afford this expensive vaccine.

The company which produces JE vaccine in Thailand have the monopoly and the World Health Organisation (WHO) has recommended this vaccine.

The vaccine imported from China will be tested for side effects. This new vaccine will be imported only once it is found appropriate to be used in Sri Lanka and it will not be imported if found unsuitable or as having any side effects.

There is no shortage of JE vaccine at Sri Lankan Government hospitals or in any other clinics.

The Government recently took a decision to import high quality effective drugs available at low prices.

This new JE vaccine produced in China is of high quality, very effective and is available at a low price.

The Delay in giving the second dose of the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine by a few months will not affect the immune system and people should not panic for any shortages the Epidemiology Unit has assured.