When is the latest time to administer the second dose of the Japanese encephalitis live attenuated vaccine?
Disease description:
My baby received the first dose of the live attenuated Japanese encephalitis vaccine at 8 months of age, and the second dose has not yet been administered—now the child is nearly 2 years old. By when is the latest that the second dose of the live attenuated Japanese encephalitis vaccine can be given?
The attenuated Japanese encephalitis vaccine is primarily used to prevent epidemic Japanese encephalitis. Typically, two doses are required: the first dose is administered at 8 months of age, and the second dose is given upon completion of the child’s second year (i.e., at ≥24 months of age). After vaccination, the child must be observed for 30 minutes. This precaution is necessary because the vaccine may cause side effects such as headache, vomiting, or diarrhea. If such symptoms occur, ensure the child drinks plenty of fluids and consult a physician.