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Japanese Encephalitis Vaccination
Reviewed by Davy Sam (RPh, APA, BSP)
The Japanese encephalitis virus is transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, particularly the Culex species. Most people who get infected with the virus experience mild or no symptoms. However, in individuals who develop severe disease, early symptoms typically include fever, headache, and vomiting. These initial symptoms may be followed by disorientation, coma, and seizures, with seizures being more common in children.
Japanese encephalitis can potentially be a severe disease, which is characterized by the rapid onset of high fever, headache, neck stiffness, disorientation, coma, seizures, and spastic paralysis. The case-fatality rate can be as high as 30% among those with disease symptoms. Among survivors, 20% to 30% may experience permanent intellectual, behavioral, or neurological sequelae such as paralysis, recurrent seizures, or the inability to speak. Infected children under 10 years old are at a greater risk of severe disease and death. While most people infected with Japanese encephalitis do not have symptoms or have only mild symptoms, the disease can lead to serious and potentially life-altering consequences in a significant percentage of cases.
Japanese Encephalitis Symptoms
The symptoms of Japanese encephalitis include:
- Severe headache
- Neck stiffness
- Sensitivity to light
- Confusion
- Seizures
- Paralysis
- Coma
Initial symptoms often involve fever, headache, and vomiting, with the potential for the development of more severe symptoms such as disorientation, weakness, and coma over the following days. Seizures are common, particularly among children. While most people infected with Japanese encephalitis do not have symptoms or have only mild symptoms, a small percentage may develop inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), leading to more severe and potentially life-threatening manifestations.
Get Protected
It is important to consult with a healthcare provider or a travel health specialist to assess the specific vaccination recommendations based on the travel itinerary and individual health considerations.
Our pharmacists can offer valuable information on required and recommended vaccinations, as well as essential tips for maintaining good health while traveling. Get in touch or book an appointment with our Travel Consultation Pharmacists.
Japanese Encephalitis FAQs
Japanese encephalitis can lead to serious and potentially life-altering consequences. While most people infected with the virus do not have symptoms or have only mild symptoms, a small percentage may develop severe infection of the brain (encephalitis), which can cause long-term complications such as paralysis, seizures, and loss of speech. In some cases, the disease can be fatal, with about 1 in 4 cases resulting in death. The symptoms of Japanese encephalitis can include severe headache, neck stiffness, sensitivity to light, confusion, seizures, paralysis, and coma. Prompt medical attention is essential for anyone experiencing these symptoms, especially after potential exposure to the virus.
Japanese encephalitis does not have a specific antiviral treatment. The management of the disease is mostly symptomatic and supportive. Treatments aim to reduce the severity of the symptoms and may include medication and hospitalization.
There is ongoing research on potential treatments, but as of now, there is no definitive cure for Japanese encephalitis. Vaccination is the most effective way to prevent the disease, particularly for those who live in or travel to areas where the virus is endemic.
The survival rate for Japanese encephalitis can vary, but the case-fatality rate is generally estimated to be between 15% and 30%. Among those who survive the infection, up to 70% may develop long-term neurological sequelae. While some estimates suggest a lower case-fatality rate after 2000, the disease can still have significant mortality and morbidity risks. Prompt medical attention and supportive care are essential for those affected by Japanese encephalitis, and vaccination is a key preventive measure, particularly for individuals living in or traveling to areas where the virus is endemic.
The Japanese encephalitis virus is primarily spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito, particularly the Culex species.
Transmission of the virus most commonly occurs in rural agricultural areas such as farms and rice paddies. While the vast majority of infections are asymptomatic, those who do develop symptoms of encephalitis suffer significant morbidity and mortality.
Therefore, it is important to take preventive measures, such as vaccination and insect repellant precautions, especially for individuals living in or traveling to areas where the virus is endemic
If you have an upcoming appointment, please fill out the Pre-Appointment form at least 48 hours before the appointment.
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Travel Clinic Locations
If you have an upcoming appointment, please fill out the Pre-Appointment form at least 48 hours before the appointment.
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