The Government is set to double its immunisation coverage for Japanese Encephalitis in the country with China agreeing to provide double the number of vaccines this year. The 21 million vaccines, up from 12 million last year, will ensure coverage for 22 districts across the country starting March 18.

A total of 101 districts across the country report cases of Japanese Encephalitis in India. Last year, when the immunisation programme was first introduced, only 11 districts could be provided vaccines.

“In 2005 there were 6,720 cases of Japanese Encephalitis reported in the country. In 2006 we introduced and administered vaccination in 11 districts. In 2007 we are going to extend this to 22 districts and hopefully cover all districts by 2010,” says Dr P Biswal, Assistant Commissioner (Immunisation), Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

While China currently supplies the vaccine —- recommended by WHO in China, South Korea, Nepal and Sri Lanka —- a few Indian manufacturers are conducting clinical trials for a vaccine, and the 2010 target may well be achieved, says Dr Biswal. “The Indian manufacturers should have the vaccine by 2009 after which the coverage can be much larger,” he adds.

The disease has been reported from eastern Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, Assam, West Bengal, Karnataka, Maharashtra, Madhya Pradesh, Tamil Nadu and Haryana. Immunisation will be provided to 22 districts in these states. A viral disease of the brain, it can lead to paralysis, coma and death.