1. How do you catch it?
When an infected mosquito bites a human, the disease can be transmitted from the mosquito to the human. These mosquitoes mainly bite during the night. Japanese Encephalitis mainly occurs in rural agricultural areas.
2. Prevention?
Protect yourself from mosquito bites! This can be achieved through use of an effective insect repellent as well as wearing long, loose-fitting clothing. Stick to long sleeved shirts and pants during peak hours. More importantly, a vaccine is also available to help prevent a mosquito bite from infecting you.
3. Vaccination options
Vaccination should be considered by those intending to spend a significant length of time in rural areas.
Number of doses? 2 doses
When to do the course? Considering the 2nd dose is administered 28 days after the 1st dose, you should start the course 4-6 weeks before your planned travel date. An accelerated schedule is also available for last minute travellers!
Booster doses? You should consider a booster 12-24 months after the first course, especially if you are planning to travel to destinations with a risk for Japanese Encephalitis.
Age restrictions? Vaccine is available for anyone above the age of one.
4. At Risk Destinations
Japanese Encephalitis is found throughout Asia and beyond.
Most cases occur in:
- China
- Myanmar (Burma)
- Thailand
- Vietnam
- Cambodia
- Laos
- Nepal
- India
- Philippines
- Sri Lanka
- Malaysia
- Indonesia
Despite its name, Japanese Encephalitis is now relatively rare in Japan as a result of mass immunisation programmes.
For a free risk assessment and expert advice, contact us today and speak with one of our dedicated healthcare professionals.