A vaccine for Japanese encephalitis is recommended if you’re travelling to a part of the world where the virus is found, especially if:
- you’re staying for more than a month
- you’re staying in a rural area
- you’re staying near or visiting rice fields, wetlands, or places where pigs are kept
Symptoms of Japanese encephalitis
Most people who get Japanese encephalitis have no symptoms.
Some people get flu-like symptoms such as:
- a headache
- a high temperature
- feeling or being sick
- tummy pain
The symptoms usually go away on their own, but in some people the infection spreads to the brain and causes more serious symptoms such as:
- a severe headache
- feeling confused
- not being able to feel or move parts of your body (paralysis)
- seizures (fits)
Vaccination
The vaccination for Japanese encephalitis is advised if you’re travelling to an area where it’s found. It’s given in two doses for protection. The second dose can either be given 28 days after the first, or, when time is short, seven days after the first (an ‘accelerated’ schedule). The two doses should be completed at least seven days before your departure.
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If you’re at higher risk of the disease, you should consider being vaccinated. It’s particularly important if:
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• You’re travelling to a high-risk country during rainy season
· • You’re visiting rural areas like rice fields, marshlands or animal farms
· • You’re likely to be doing activities that could increase your risk like camping
How long does the Japanese encephalitis vaccination last?
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If you’re at prolonged risk of infection, you should have a booster injection 12 to 24 months after the initial vaccination.

