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What is Japanese encephalitis?
Japanese encephalitis is a viral infection spread by mosquitoes in parts of Asia and the Western Pacific. Most people infected have no symptoms, but in a small number of cases it can cause serious brain inflammation (encephalitis). There is no cure for the infection itself, so vaccination is the most effective way to prevent it.
The vaccine we offer is safe and effective, and is recommended by travel health services for anyone travelling to endemic areas, particularly during the rainy season when mosquito activity is highest.
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Who is it for?
The Japanese encephalitis vaccine is suitable for most adults planning to travel to countries where the virus is present. We recommend it especially if you are spending time in rural areas, visiting during peak mosquito season, or staying for more than a month.
You may be a good candidate for this vaccine if you meet any of the following:
- Travelling to Japan, China, Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos, or other endemic regions
- Planning to spend time outdoors or in rural areas during your trip
- Staying for more than two weeks in an at-risk country
- Visiting during the rainy season (May to October in most regions)
- Working in healthcare, agriculture, or other occupations with higher exposure risk
- Unsure about your risk level and want expert advice before travelling
If you are unsure whether the vaccine is right for you, our team can review your travel plans and advise.
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How the vaccine works
The Japanese encephalitis vaccine is given as an injection, usually into the upper arm. Most people need two doses, given between 28 days apart, to build full immunity. If you are travelling soon, we can discuss a faster schedule with you at your appointment.
After your second dose, it takes about 10 days for immunity to develop fully. We recommend completing your course at least two weeks before you travel.
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Things to know before your appointment
The vaccine is very safe. Common side effects are mild and short-lived, such as arm soreness, low-grade fever, or headache. Serious side effects are extremely rare.
You should not have the vaccine if you are allergic to any of its ingredients, or if you have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose. If you are pregnant, breastfeeding, or have a weakened immune system, please speak to our team before booking so we can advise whether the vaccine is suitable for you.
Standard reasons we may need to defer or discuss the vaccine:
- Severe allergy to vaccine ingredients
- Acute fever or serious illness
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding
- Weakened immune system
- Recent live vaccine (28-day gap required)
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After your appointment
Most people feel fine after the vaccine and can return to normal activities straight away. You may notice mild soreness at the injection site, which usually settles within a day or two.
Keep a record of your vaccination (we will provide a certificate). If you develop a high fever, severe headache, or unusual symptoms in the weeks after vaccination, contact your GP. These are very unlikely to be related to the vaccine, but it is important to rule out other causes.
“I was nervous about travelling to Thailand, but the team made the whole process straightforward. They explained everything clearly and I felt confident heading off on my trip.”
Two-dose course
Most travellers need two injections, 28 days apart. We can advise on faster schedules if you are travelling soon.
No GP referral needed
Book directly with us. Our pharmacist will review your travel plans and confirm the vaccine is right for you.
Vaccination certificate included
We provide an official record of your vaccination, recognised by health authorities worldwide.
Expert travel health advice
Our team can discuss other travel health precautions, including malaria prevention and routine vaccinations you may need.
