Japanese Encephalitis Vaccination
Japanese encephalitis is a viral disease which is transmitted by mosquitoes. The virus is found in pigs and birds, however if is spread to humans through mosquito bites. It can’t be passed from one person to another. Most people will have mild or no symptoms however the virus can cause severe symptoms and lead to serious long term complications.
About the vaccine
- When to get vaccinated: You need to get the first dose ideally five weeks before you travel in order to be able to complete the course in time.
- Course: The course consists of two doses. The second dose needs to be given ideally 28 days after the first. You are protected from seven days after the second dose.
- Accelerated course: In special cases you can get a faster course where the first dose should be at least 2 weeks before you travel.
- Boosters: The vaccine protects you for at least 12 months, so you need a booster 12-24 months later to remain protected after one year.
- How it is given: Injection in the upper arm.
- Side effects: The vaccine can cause side effects such as digestive problems, a high temperature and muscle pain. You may also notice soreness at the injection site.
- Children: The vaccine can be given from the age of two months.
- Additional precautions: In addition to getting the vaccination you need to practise mosquito bite avoidance.
- Risk if you contract the disease: Japanese encephalitis can cause severe complications, including brain damage and death. There is no cure for it.
Prices
| Per Dose | £105 |
| Doses per course | 2 |
| Price per course | £210 |
How it Works
Frequently Asked Question
About Japanese encephalitis vaccination
Superdrug Health Clinics provide a Japanese encephalitis vaccination which consists of two injections. The second dose needs to be administered 28 days after the first, so you need to allow plenty of time before you travel.
Primary immunisation should be completed at least one week prior to potential exposure to Japanese encephalitis virus.
Once you have received both doses, you are protected against Japanese encephalitis for 12-24 months. After one year, you require a booster.
What is Japanese encephalitis?
Japanese encephalitis is a viral disease which, like malaria, is transmitted by mosquitoes. In many patients, Japanese encephalitis symptoms remain mild and the infection may even go unnoticed. However, in some cases, the virus causes severe symptoms and leads to serious complications.
Typical encephalitis symptoms include nausea and vomiting, seizures, headaches and confusion. The Japanese encephalitis virus affects the human brain and can lead to inflammation and swelling in the brain. In very severe cases, the infection can lead to brain damage.
There is no specific medication to treat and cure this type of encephalitis. Treatment usually focuses on relieving symptoms and supporting the immune system in its effort to fight the virus. A Japanese encephalitis vaccine provides medical protection for travellers at risk of catching the virus.
The World Health Organisation states, that there are roughly 70,000 new cases of Japanese Encephalitis worldwide each year. Half of these cases were in China, and around three quarters of all cases were children under the age of 15 years.
Side effects of the Japanese encephalitis vaccine
Allergic reactions are rare but can be serious. Common, less worrying side effects of the Japanese encephalitis vaccine, are redness and swelling at the site of injection, high temperature, nausea, dizziness and vomiting as well as abdominal pain. You may also experience muscle pain. These side effects should pass quickly.
Risk areas
Japanese encephalitis is primarily found on the Asian continent. High risk countries include China, Cambodia, India, Indonesia, Korea, Laos, Malaysia, Myanmar, Nepal, Philippines, Singapore, Sri Lanka, Thailand and Vietnam. Your risk of encephalitis in some of these countries will vary depending on the time of year of your visit. Due to the increased number of mosquitoes, the risk of encephalitis can be higher during the rainy seasons.
Generally, the risk for travellers is regarded as relatively low. However, travellers visiting remote areas and backpackers who spend prolonged periods of time outdoors have a higher risk of infection, as do children.
Spending time in a location close to pig farms or rice fields also increases your risk of contracting the virus, as mosquitoes thrive in damp areas and can pass the virus from animals to humans.
Your Superdrug Health nurse or pharmacist will be able to help you decide whether you require a Japanese encephalitis vaccination.
Preventing Japanese encephalitis
As with other illnesses transmitted by mosquitoes, you can protect yourself from Japanese encephalitis by avoiding mosquito bites. Insect repellent, mosquito nets and long-sleeved clothing will help you stay safe when travelling to an encephalitis area.
You may also wish to travel outside the rainy season to limit your exposure to mosquitoes and the infections they carry. The Japanese encephalitis vaccine is the safest option for prevention and provides over 90% protection against the virus.
