Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine

What is Japanese Encephalitis?

Japanese Encephalitis is a viral infection that primarily affects the brain. It is transmitted through mosquito bites and is most commonly found in rural areas of Asia and the Pacific Rim. Mosquitoes carrying the Japanese Encephalitis virus are active during the night, particularly between dusk and dawn. These mosquitoes are often prevalent in regions where agricultural activities, such as rice cultivation and farming, are prominent.

Symptoms of Japanese Encephalitis

The symptoms of Japanese Encephalitis are typically mild, and many individuals may not even notice they are infected. However, it’s crucial to be aware of the potential risks associated with this disease. Approximately 30% of infected individuals may develop neurological problems, while another 30% may unfortunately succumb to the disease. Common symptoms include:

• Nausea
• Vomiting
• Encephalitis
• Meningitis
• Seizures
• Headaches

High Risk Areas

Japanese Encephalitis is primarily prevalent in several countries across Asia, including China, Cambodia, Laos, Vietnam, Nepal, and the Philippines. It’s important to note that the risk of contracting the Japanese Encephalitis virus can vary throughout the year, with rainy seasons presenting the highest risks.

Who Should Get Vaccinated?

Certain activities and circumstances can increase an individual’s risk of contracting Japanese Encephalitis. We recommend vaccination for the following groups:

• Individuals planning to travel and stay in high-risk countries for at least one month.
• Individuals intending to visit rural areas in these high-risk countries, such as rice fields, marshlands, or areas with pig farms.
• Individuals participating in activities such as cycling or camping that take place in these high-risk areas.
• Individuals working in laboratories where exposure to the virus is possible.

If you are unsure whether you fall into any of these categories, our friendly GPs at Private Medical Clinic are available to provide personalised advice based on your specific circumstances.

Prevention Measures

While the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine offers significant protection, it is important to adopt additional measures to minimise the risk of contracting the virus. We recommend the following preventive steps:

• Ensure that the room where you sleep has windows and doors covered with close-fitting gauze to prevent mosquitoes from entering.
• If you are sleeping outdoors, use a mosquito net and apply insecticide to further repel mosquitoes.
• Use insecticide to minimise the possibility of mosquitoes entering your living space.
• Wear loose-fitting, long-sleeved clothing to cover your body, as mosquitoes can bite through tight clothing.
• Apply insect repellent to any exposed areas of your body.

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine

At Private Medical Clinic, we offer the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine as a highly effective method of protection against the virus. The vaccine is administered through an injection and requires two doses to ensure full immunity. The second dose is typically given 28 days after the initial dose. In some cases, individuals between the ages of 18 and 64 may receive the second dose just seven days after the first dose.

For individuals at continued risk of infection, a booster dose is recommended approximately 12 to 24 months after the initial vaccination.

Precautions and Side Effects

While the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine is generally safe and well-tolerated, it’s essential to consider certain precautions and potential side effects. The vaccine should not be administered if:

• You have a fever.
• You are breastfeeding or pregnant.
• The recipient is a baby under two months of age, as the vaccine may not be as effective in this age group.

Approximately 40% of individuals vaccinated may experience mild side effects, including soreness, tenderness, and redness around the injection site, mild headache, and muscle pain. In rare cases, individuals may experience an itchy rash, facial swelling, or difficulty breathing. If you have any concerns about potential side effects, we encourage you to contact us for further guidance.