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Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine for Travel

We provide a full range of travel vaccinations and medication

Japanese Encephalitis

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a flavirus mosquito-borne virus which affects the brain. Approximately 70,000 clinical cases occur in 24 countries (WHO, 2015). They are prevalent around rural farming areas in Asia.

Vaccination Pricing

£110 Per dose
£220 Per Course

Signs & Symptoms

Most human infections with JE virus do not result in symptoms.

When symptoms do occur they include:

  • Mostly asymptomatic

  • Fever

  • Headache

  • Confusion

  • Death rate is high in symptomatic cases admitted to hospital

Hawne Chemist & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 0121 501 3518

Email: westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

177 Stourbridge Rd, Halesowen, B63 3UD

Bills Pharmacy & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01384 872117

Email: westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

29 High St, Kinver, Stourbridge, DY7 6HF

Millard and Bullock Chemist & Travel Clinic

General Contact & Travel Vaccination

Tel: 01902 883 182

Email: westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

westmidstravelclinic@raylane.co.uk

Castle Street, Bilston, WV14 9DD

The Vaccination

Ages (Years) Doses Required Schedule Time before travel Boost required at
3 – 85 2 0, 28 days Last dose up to day before* 1-2 years
18 – 65 2 0, 7 days** Last dose up to day before* 1-2 years

*This vaccination is at its most effective when given time to develop adequate immunity. Some immunity will be present if you get the vaccine up to the day before your trip.
** accelerated schedule

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a serious viral infection that affects the brain and is spread through the bite of infected mosquitoes. The virus belongs to the flavivirus family, the same group responsible for dengue and Zika. JE is endemic to parts of Asia and the Western Pacific, including rural and agricultural areas where rice paddies and pig farming are common. Although most infected individuals experience no symptoms or only mild flu-like illness, in a small percentage of cases, the virus invades the central nervous system and causes potentially life-threatening inflammation of the brain. Japanese encephalitis can result in permanent neurological damage, particularly in children, and carries a significant fatality rate among those who develop severe disease. There is no specific treatment or cure, which makes vaccination and prevention measures especially important for at-risk travellers.

Japanese encephalitis is spread by Culex mosquitoes, which typically breed in flooded fields and stagnant water, especially in rural farming communities. The virus is maintained in a transmission cycle between mosquitoes, pigs, and water birds, but humans are accidental hosts and cannot spread the infection to others. The risk of infection is highest in the evening and early morning, when mosquito activity peaks. Prevention relies heavily on avoiding mosquito bites through the use of repellents containing DEET or picaridin, wearing long-sleeved clothing, using bed nets, and staying in well-screened or air-conditioned accommodation. In addition, a safe and effective vaccine is available for those at higher risk of exposure. Travellers spending extended time in endemic areas, especially in rural or agricultural settings, should strongly consider vaccination as a preventive measure.

Most people infected with Japanese encephalitis will not show any signs of illness. However, in rare cases — estimated at fewer than one in 250 infections — the virus progresses to cause inflammation of the brain. The onset of severe disease is typically sudden, with early symptoms including high fever, headache, vomiting, confusion, and sensitivity to light. As the condition worsens, neurological signs such as seizures, neck stiffness, difficulty speaking, tremors, paralysis, and even coma may develop. Children are particularly vulnerable to severe complications. Recovery may be slow and incomplete, with many survivors experiencing lasting neurological or psychological problems, including cognitive impairment, motor dysfunction, or behavioural changes. Due to the high risk of serious outcomes, any symptoms consistent with encephalitis following travel to a high-risk area require immediate medical attention.

The Japanese encephalitis vaccine provides good protection and is administered as a two-dose course, with the second dose given 28 days after the first. Full immunity is generally achieved about one week after the second injection. For adults aged 18 to 65 requiring more rapid protection, an accelerated schedule of two doses spaced seven days apart may be available, depending on the vaccine brand. Once the initial course is complete, protection typically lasts for at least one to two years. A booster dose may be recommended for individuals who remain at risk due to repeat travel or long-term residence in endemic areas. The vaccine is licensed for use in children as young as two months, making it suitable for family travel in high-risk regions.

Japanese encephalitis is found throughout Southeast Asia, the Indian subcontinent, China, Taiwan, and parts of the Western Pacific, including Papua New Guinea and some regions of northern Australia. Risk is highest in rural or agricultural areas, particularly during and after the rainy season when mosquito populations are most abundant. Countries such as India, Nepal, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, Indonesia, and the Philippines have documented cases or seasonal outbreaks. The vaccine is generally recommended for travellers spending a month or more in endemic areas, particularly if staying in rural settings. It may also be advised for shorter trips if the traveller is undertaking outdoor activities such as cycling, trekking, or working in farming or healthcare. A consultation with a travel health specialist is important to assess individual risk based on itinerary and length of stay.

The Japanese encephalitis vaccine is considered safe and effective, with most side effects being mild and short-lived. Common reactions include soreness, swelling, or redness at the injection site, as well as fatigue, headache, or mild fever. These symptoms typically resolve within a day or two. In rare instances, individuals may experience an allergic reaction or more pronounced flu-like symptoms. Serious side effects are extremely uncommon. The vaccine does not contain live virus, so it cannot cause the disease itself. As with any vaccine, those with known allergies to any of the components should seek medical advice before receiving it. Overall, the benefits of vaccination far outweigh the risks, particularly for travellers heading to regions where the consequences of infection could be severe and long-lasting.

Use the map below to identify areas of risk for travel.

Simply call the clinic of your choice or send us an email enquiry, and our travel specialists will get back to you as soon as possible.

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