If you’re planning to travel to Asia, there’s a mosquito-borne illness that you should be aware of. It’s called Japanese encephalitis. Similar to other diseases spread by mosquitoes, such as West Nile Virus, Japanese encephalitis can cause severe symptoms and even death. The good news is; there’s a Japanese encephalitis vaccine that makes this disease easily preventable. At ID Care, we offer comprehensive travel care that takes into account the diseases known to affect the country and specific areas you plan to travel to. For trips to certain parts of Asia, we can provide you with the Japanese encephalitis vaccine.

What does the Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine Do?

The Japanese encephalitis vaccine protects against a virus found in many parts of Asia that is spread through mosquito bites. Japanese encephalitis, which can lead to symptoms of fever, headache, vomiting, confusion, difficulty moving, swelling in the brain, coma, and death, is easily preventable thanks to the vaccine.

How Many Doses Will I Need?

The Japanese encephalitis vaccine is given in two doses that are typically spaced 28 days apart, with the final dose being given at least one week before travel. Adults between the ages of 18 and 65 can get the second dose as soon as seven days after the first dose. A booster dose may be needed if you received the initial two doses more than a year ago and plan on traveling to affected parts of Asia again.

Who is the Vaccine Recommended for?

The Japanese encephalitis vaccine can be given to children as young as two months old. It is recommended for people who will be visiting a Japanese encephalitis-endemic country for more than a year or moving there to live. It is also recommended for short-term travelers with high-risk itineraries and those traveling during high-risk seasons.

Who Should Not Get the Vaccine?

You should not receive the Japanese encephalitis vaccine if you are allergic to protamine sulfate. Because of a lack of studies in pregnant women, it’s recommended that pregnant women not receive the vaccine unless they have to travel to high-risk locations.

Are There Any Potential Side Effects or Risks Associated with the Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine?

Reactions to the Japanese encephalitis vaccine are typically mild and may include pain and tenderness, mild headaches, muscle aches, and low-grade fever.

Get Comprehensive Travel Care at ID Care

At ID Care, our physicians are trained to provide comprehensive travel care that’s tailored to the country you have visited or plan to visit. If you plan on traveling to Asia within the next few months, come see us to get your Japanese encephalitis vaccine and other preventative vaccines before you travel. We have nine convenient locations where you can set up an appointment.