Japanese encephalitis vaccine for travel

What it is

Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection that can cause inflammation of the brain. Most infections cause no symptoms, but severe cases can be serious.

How it is caught

It is spread by the bite of infected mosquitoes, which mainly bite between dusk and dawn, mostly in rural parts of Asia and the Western Pacific where rice growing and pig farming are common.

Who it is advised for

The risk for most travellers, especially on short city trips, is very low. Vaccination is recommended for people going to live in a risk area, staying a month or more, or travelling frequently to risk areas, and may be considered for shorter trips with more rural exposure.

The vaccine course

The course is two doses, usually 28 days apart, and a faster schedule seven days apart is available for some adults. The course should be completed at least one week before possible exposure.

Where it is given

Japanese encephalitis vaccine is not usually free on the NHS and is available privately from pharmacies and travel clinics.

Destinations

Sometimes advised for travellers to

• Thailand
• India
• Vietnam
• Indonesia
• Sri Lanka
• Philippines

Going to Thailand, India and Vietnam? Each guide lists every vaccine UK guidance advises for the country, with malaria and certificate notes, so you can see the whole picture before your consultation.

Price

£110