Japanese encephalitis

* We have good stock in spite of the national shortage of Japanese Encephalitis.

Japanese Encephalitis (JE) is a life-threatening viral brain infection which is spread to humans via infected bite of a Culex mosquito. The virus is found in areas of south-east Asia and the Indian subcontinent.

The infection affects the brain causing neurological problems. It is estimated that there are around 70,000 cases each year, with 20,000 of those being fatal. There is no specific cure for the illness and therefore treatment is supportive rather than curative.

A vaccine is available and strongly recommended as the best form of prevention.

Who should have the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine?

Vaccination is advised for travellers who:

• Plan to travel to areas where Japanese Encephalitis occur are at risk of infection, especially during prolonged stays in rural areas.
• Will spend prolonged periods of time in an area that transmits JE
• Plan to do outdoor activities such as camping and hiking
• Will be staying in rural or agricultural areas, especially those staying overnight
• Are travelling to an area of a known outbreak of JE (recent outbreaks include Assam in India and Myanmar)
• Will be unable to prevent mosquito bites