Update on JEV vaccine availability

JEspect out of stock; Imojev available

Please refer to the updated Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) vaccination criteria and eligibility.

We have been advised by Health Protection that there is currently no further stock of JEspect available to order from the State Vaccine Centre. At the same time, there remains a large volume of Imojev stock available.

Health Protection has advised there are no confirmed plans at this stage for additional purchases of JEspect. As such, JEspect is not available to order. We will provide an update if further stock becomes available.

For patients who have already received a single dose of JEspect, please refer to previous NSWISS advice:

• Immunocompetent patients who received a first dose of JEspect can receive Imojev as dose 2, or they may choose to wait beyond the usual 28 days for a second dose of JEspect. Delaying dose 2 does not diminish the effect of the vaccine, however patients will not be fully immunised until the second dose and may remain at risk of breakthrough infection.

• Immunocompromised patients should continue to receive two doses of JEspect, in line with the Australian Immunisation Handbook.

As there is currently ample stock of Imojev available (with expiry dates later this year and early next year), please continue to encourage providers to offer and recommend Imojev to eligible immunocompetent patients.