I never thought that traveling to Australia would expose me to Japanese encephalitis. Thankfully, Dr. F explained to me the dangers of this scary disease and showed me statistics that made it clear to me that a vaccine was necessary. Now I can travel with confidence knowing that I will not get sick. Travel Clinic of NY—I say thank you!
What is Japanese encephalitis?
Japanese encephalitis is caused by a virus that is spread by the bite of infected mosquitoes.
What are the symptoms?
Symptoms can either be mild fever and headache, or they can be severe with a high fever, headache, neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors and coma. There is no treatment for the disease and it can be deadly.
Where is it common?
Japanese encephalitis is common in south East Asia, Indian subcontinent, the Far East and tropical north east Australia
Who needs to get vaccinated for Japanese encephalitis?
Japanese encephalitis vaccine may be recommended for:
- Travelers to south East Asia, Indian subcontinent, the Far East and tropical north east Australia (if staying for a month or longer during the transmission season, especially if travel will include rural areas).
- Travelers with shorter exposure periods if the risk is high, such as those spending a short period of time in rice fields (where the mosquito breeds) or close to pig farming (a host for the virus).
How long prior to traveling should the Japanese encephalitis vaccine be administered?
Complete the vaccine schedule at least 10 days prior to departure (to allow observation for delayed allergic reactions), and ideally a month before travel (to allow immunity to develop).
Japanese encephalitis vaccine
Inactivated vaccines are currently available- JE-Vax(Japanese encephalitis vaccine) given as injection: day 0, and 28. Boost every 2–3 years following second dose, if at continued risk.
What should be expected post vaccination
- Tenderness, redness, and swelling at the injection site have been reported in about 20% of vaccinated people
- Serious systemic reactions (rash, lip or tongue swelling, shortness of breath, etc), occur in about 0.6% of vaccine recipients.
Where travelers can get vaccinated for Japanese encephalitis in New York City?
Japanese encephalitis vaccine is available at our certified Midtown Manhattan Travel Clinic.
Please call us today at (212) 696 5900 to ensure your travel safety.
For more information please go to: http://www.cdc.gov/ncidod/dvbid/jencephalitis/qa.htm