Japanese Encephalitis (JE) is a potentially deadly viral brain infection caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus, transmitted by mosquitoes in parts of Asia and the Western Pacific. While rare among travelers, the disease can cause severe neurological damage or death. Vaccination offers effective protection, especially for people at risk due to location or duration of exposure.

Who Should Get the Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine?

Vaccination is recommended for:

• Travelers spending a month or more in rural or endemic areas of Asia and the Pacific Islands

• Short-term travelers with increased outdoor exposure (e.g., camping, trekking, farming)

• Expatriates, long-term visitors, or people moving to endemic areas

• Lab workers exposed to JE virus

• Military personnel stationed in affected regions

Endemic countries include parts of India, China, Southeast Asia, Papua New Guinea, and northern Australia, among others.

Available Vaccines

IXIARO® (Inactivated JE vaccine)

• Approved for use in many countries, including the U.S., Europe, and Australia

• Suitable for adults and children aged 2 months and older

Standard schedule:

• 2 doses, 28 days apart (Day 0 and Day 28)

• Complete at least 1 week before travel

• A booster dose may be recommended after 12–24 months for ongoing exposure

Effectiveness

• Over 90% effective after the full 2-dose series

• Provides long-term protection, especially with booster

Side Effects and Safety

• Generally well tolerated

• Common side effects: pain at injection site, headache, muscle aches, fever

• Serious side effects are rare

• Safe for children, adults, and travelers with medical conditions (consult your doctor)