Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine
Japanese Encephalitis (JE) is a serious viral brain infection spread by mosquito bites in rural parts of Asia. Vaccination is recommended for travellers spending extended time in rural areas of Southeast and East Asia.
What is Japanese Encephalitis?
JE is caused by a flavivirus transmitted by Culex mosquitoes, which breed in rice paddies and bite predominantly at dusk and dawn. Most infections cause no symptoms, but in a small proportion of cases the virus infects the brain, causing encephalitis that can be fatal or lead to permanent neurological damage.
Who needs this vaccine?
- Travellers spending a month or more in rural areas of Asia during the transmission season
- Those visiting rice-farming regions in countries including Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Indonesia, China, and India
- Travellers whose itinerary involves significant outdoor or rural activity in at-risk areas, even for shorter stays
- Expatriates and long-term residents in endemic regions
Doses & schedule
The primary course is 2 doses given 28 days apart (Ixiaro vaccine). Both doses should be completed at least one week before potential exposure. A booster 12–24 months later is recommended for ongoing or repeat exposure.
Frequently asked questions
Generally no — Japanese Encephalitis is primarily a rural risk. Urban city breaks with no rural activity are at very low risk. If your trip includes rural areas, trekking, or rice-farming regions, your clinician will advise based on the specific itinerary.
Two doses 28 days apart form the primary course. A booster at 12–24 months is recommended for continued or repeat exposure. We can schedule all doses to fit your travel timeline.
The standard schedule is 0 and 28 days. If time is limited, speak to your clinician about your options — the two doses should ideally be completed before potential exposure begins.
Book your Japanese Encephalitis vaccination
Start your 2-dose course today — appointments available same day.