Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine
Japanese encephalitis is a serious infection transmitted by mosquitoes in some parts of the world, predominantly in rural regions of Asia.
What Is Japanese Encephalitis?
Japanese encephalitis is an infection that spreads via mosquito bites that can lead to inflammation of the brain. The mosquitoes responsible for transmission are typically found in and around rice paddies in south-east Asia and the Indian subcontinent, with bite risks highest at around dusk.
The virus isn’t found in the UK and, although it is rare for those travelling in high-risk areas to contract it, the recommended course of action is to be vaccinated against it before visiting your chosen destination.
At-risk areas include India, China, Japan, Indonesia, South Korea and south-east Asia (including Thailand, Vietnam and Malaysia).
How Can You Prevent Japanese Encephalitis?
The best way to prevent Japanese encephalitis if you’re travelling to an at-risk part of the world is to be vaccinated against it, particularly if you play to stay in a rural area, if you’ll be in the region for more than a month at a time and if you plan to stay near or visit wetlands, rice fields or places where pigs are kept.
Taking additional precautions to prevent mosquito bites, particularly at dusk, can also help reduce your risk of contracting the virus. For example, you could consider wearing long-sleeved tops and trousers, as well as socks and shoes, to prevent bites, as well as sleeping under a mosquito net and using insect repellent on exposed skin.
What Are The Symptoms Of Japanese Encephalitis?
There are various symptoms of Japanese encephalitis, including:
- A headache
- A high temperature
- Nausea/vomiting
- Abdominal pain
Note, however, that the majority of cases will be asymptomatic and symptoms that do present will typically resolve themselves. However, in some instances the infection can spread to the brain and cause more serious complications, including:
- Feelings of confusion
- A severe headache
- Paralysis
- Seizures
How Can Japanese Encephalitis Be Treated?
If you’re experiencing severe symptoms of Japanese encephalitis, you will need to be hospitalised for treatment as it can be life-threatening.
Is There A Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine?
At Enimed Group, our pharmacies provide a range of different vaccinations, including the Japanese encephalitis vaccine.
Our specialist travel pharmacists can administer the appropriate treatments to both children (over the age of two months) and adults alike, as well as providing a walk-in clinic service and up-to-date travel health advice for your chosen destinations.
The vaccine course consists of two doses, with the second dose generally administered 28 days after the first. It is important to get your first dose five weeks before travelling in order to complete the course of treatment in time. You will be protected from the virus seven days after your second dose.
The vaccine should protect you for at least 12 months, so a booster may be required 12-24 months later if you intend to travel again.