Adverse events following Live JE Vaccination – An Observational Study

Abstract

Objectives: To study the safety profile of live JE vaccine. To analyse the possible risk factors for development of adverse events.  

Methods: 1500 children aged 1 year to 15 years, vaccinated with live JE vaccine during a mass vaccination campaign, were followed up for a period of 6 months from the time of vaccination. Outcome measures were major and minor adverse events during the first two weeks and any neurological events thereafter.  

Results: No serious adverse reactions were noted in the 1st two weeks following vaccination. 22.3% reported minor events like fever, headache, upper respiratory symptoms, vomiting, rashes and local reactions. Those with a personal or family history of atopy showed an increased risk of adverse events. No significant correlation between age, sex, or nutritional status and risk for development of adverse events were noted. None of the vaccine recipients experienced any major neurological events within next 6 M.  

Conclusion: Live attenuated JE vaccine is safe in children below 15 years. Those with a history of atopy have a higher risk of developing minor adverse events following the vaccine.