Japanese encephalitis in the Western Pacific Region: Implication from the Republic of Korea

Vaccine. 2020 Mar 17;38(13):2760-2763. doi: 10.1016/j.vaccine.2020.02.061. Epub 2020 Feb 25.

Abstract

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is endemic in the Western Pacific Region. We aim to describe the regional status of control of JE, based on the World Health Organization (WHO) surveillance data, and to share the experience from the Republic of Korea. Substantial progress has been made in the region to date; however, epidemiologic changes have not been delineated. The vaccination coverage should be addressed to close the immunity gap. The lessons learned from Korea may aid in establishing a high-quality surveillance system with a sustainable JE vaccination program in order to prepare for new challenges that this region will face.

Keywords: Japanese encephalitis; Korea; Vaccine.

MeSH terms

  • Encephalitis Virus, Japanese
  • Encephalitis, Japanese* / epidemiology
  • Encephalitis, Japanese* / prevention & control
  • Epidemiological Monitoring
  • Humans
  • Japanese Encephalitis Vaccines*
  • Republic of Korea / epidemiology
  • World Health Organization

Substances

  • Japanese Encephalitis Vaccines