Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine
Japanese Encephalitis
Japanese Encephalitis (JE) is a viral infection that affects the brain and spreads to humans through mosquito bites. These mosquitoes are most active at night, from dusk to dawn, and are commonly found in rural areas linked to rice farming and pig rearing. However, they can also appear in urban settings.
For most travellers, the risk of JE remains low. Nevertheless, prolonged stays, rural travel, and outdoor activities during mosquito-active hours can increase your exposure. In particular, fieldwork, camping, or spending time in rural areas at dusk further raises the risk, even for short-term visitors.
Symptoms
Most Japanese encephalitis (JE) infections do not cause symptoms, and many people remain unaware they were infected. When symptoms appear, they can include fever, headache, vomiting, and confusion. Severe cases may progress to inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), often requiring hospitalisation and carrying a high risk of death or long-term neurological complications such as paralysis, speech difficulties, or seizures.
Seeking prompt medical care is essential, but vaccination and protecting yourself from mosquito bites remain the most effective ways to prevent JE.
Vaccination
The Japanese encephalitis vaccine effectively prevents infection, especially for travellers spending extended periods in rural or high-risk areas. Health authorities recommend it for anyone aged two months or older visiting endemic regions or doing high-exposure activities.
The standard schedule involves two doses over 28 days, while adults aged 18–65 can follow an accelerated schedule on day 0 and day 7. Protecting yourself from mosquito bites remains essential, and the vaccine provides an additional layer of defence for high-risk travellers.
Book Your Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine
Protect yourself before travelling with a safe and effective Japanese encephalitis vaccination at North Manchester Travel Clinic. Additionally, our healthcare team will guide you through the vaccination process, give personalised advice on staying healthy abroad, and explain how to combine the vaccine with practical mosquito-avoidance measures for maximum protection.
Price: £65 per dose (two-dose course)
Furthermore, we also recommend that you check which vaccines your destination recommends before you travel.
Book your appointment today to receive your Japanese encephalitis vaccine and other essential travel vaccinations, and travel with confidence knowing you’re fully protected against mosquito-borne illnesses.