Prevention and Cure:
As of now, DOH said there is no known antiviral treatment for the disease.
Concerned citizens are now considering the use of vaccine sold in the market to avoid being infected by the disease. Imojev, the only available brand of JE vaccine in the country, has a price range of P2,500 to P4,000 per shot depending on the hospital where it was availed of.
But while there is an identified vaccine against the disease the DOH discouraged its use due to possible infectivity.
DOH said that taking JE vaccine shots during the rainy season, which is considered the disease’s peak season, citing the low probability of the vaccine taking effect when it is administered during the period.
Instead of the vaccines, the public are urged tofocus on maintaining cleanliness of their surroundings, including getting rid of standing water, to avoid becoming breeding places for mosquitoes.
Wearing of long-sleeved tops, pants, or socks to avoid mosquito bites and use of mosquito nets and applying insect repellents approved by the Food and Drug Administration are also advised.
Meanwhile, DOH said that the free JE vaccines will be included in the national immunization program in 2018 as soon as data confirms its efficacy. It will be introduced to young children during the off-peak season.
