What is Japanese Encephalitis
How to prevent Japanese Encephalitis
Who should get a Japanese Encephalitis vaccine
When to get a Japanese Encephalitis vaccine
 What is Japanese Encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis is a serious infection caused by a virus. It occurs in certain rural parts of
Asia.
Encephalitis means swelling of the brain. Japanese encephalitis spreads through the bite of infected mosquitoes. It
cannot spread directly from one person to another.
Japanese encephalitis can cause:
- Mild infections with fever and headache
- Severe infections with encephalitis. About 1 in 4 of such cases results in death. Symptoms of
more severe infection are headache, high fever, neck stiffness, stupor, disorientation, abnormal
movements, occasional convulsions (especially in infants), coma and paralysis.
How to prevent Japanese Encephalitis
Japanese encephalitis vaccine can prevent Japanese encephalitis.
(NOTE: JE vaccine is not 100% effective and is not a substitute for mosquito precautions).
Protection from Mosquitoes
As with any disease transmitted by mosquitoes, you can prevent exposure to japanese encephalitis virus by:
- Remaining in well screened areas
- Wearing clothes that cover most of the body
- Using an effective insect repellent, such as those containing up to 30% N,N-diethyl
metatoluamide DEET) on skin and clothing. Use of permethrin on clothing will also help
prevent mosquito bites.
Who should get a Japanese Encephalitis vaccine
People who live or travel in certain rural parts of Asia should get the vaccine. Additionally, laboratory workers at risk
of exposure to the Japanese encephalitis virus should be vaccinated.
When to get a Japanese Encephalitis vaccine
- Three doses of vaccine are given, with the 2nd dose given 7 days after the 1st and the 3rd
dose given 30 days after the 1st (Note: There is approximately 80% immunity with 2 doses)
- The third dose should be given at least 10 days before travel, to be sure the vaccine begins
to protect and to allow for medical care if there are delayed side effects
- A booster dose may be needed after 2 years
Japanese encephalitis vaccine may be given at the same time as other vaccines.
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