Home / Health / Kozhikode Battles Japanese Encephalitis: Vaccine Safety Assured
Kozhikode Battles Japanese Encephalitis: Vaccine Safety Assured
17 Jan
Summary
- Japanese Encephalitis vaccination is deemed safe by Kozhikode health officials.
- Vaccination targets over 676,000 children aged 1-15 in Kozhikode district.
- JE virus transmits via mosquitoes; human-to-human spread is impossible.
Kozhikode health officials have unequivocally stated that the current vaccination drive against Japanese Encephalitis (JE) is entirely safe for children. The campaign commenced on January 15 and is targeting children aged between 1 and 15 years, with vaccination sites established in schools, anganwadis, and government health centers.
This crucial vaccination effort aims to protect 676,176 children in the Kozhikode district, where seven JE cases and three deaths have been recorded between 2023 and 2025. The vaccine, previously administered only in Thiruvananthapuram and Alappuzha districts since 2009, is being rolled out with extensive logistical support.
The JE virus, which poses a substantial risk of mortality (30%) and long-term disabilities, is transmitted through mosquito bites. Health officials emphasized that there is no human-to-human transmission, and the virus cycles between mosquitoes, pigs, and water birds. Mild reactions like fever are expected to be self-limiting.
