Govt is set to double Japanese Encephalitis cover

8220;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 2010,8221; says Dr P Biswal, Assistant Commissioner Immunisation, Ministry of Health and Family Welfare.

While China currently supplies the vaccine 8212;- recommended by WHO in China, South Korea, Nepal and Sri Lanka 8212;- a few Indian manufacturers are conducting clinical trials for a vaccine, and the 2010 target may well be achieved, says Dr Biswal. 8220;The Indian manufacturers should have the vaccine by 2009 after which the coverage can be much larger,8221; 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.