Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine

Planning your next adventure? Make sure you’re protected with the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine and other essential travel vaccinations available at Kamsons Pharmacy. If you’re travelling to areas where this virus is common, getting vaccinated is an important step in safeguarding your health. Our team at Kamsons Pharmacy offers quick and convenient access to the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine, ensuring you’re ready for a safe and enjoyable trip.
What is Japanese Encephalitis?
Japanese Encephalitis (JE) is a viral infection that is transmitted through mosquito bites, predominantly in certain parts of Asia. While it is rare, Japanese Encephalitis can be a serious illness, and vaccination is highly recommended for those planning to travel to areas where the disease is prevalent. The condition primarily affects rural regions where rice cultivation and pig farming are common, but it can also occur in urban areas under certain circumstances.
Japanese Encephalitis is most commonly found in countries such as India, China, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, and Southeast Asia.

Travellers who are heading to these regions should take extra care to understand the risks and consider vaccination.
For tailored recommendations, it’s advisable to visit the Travel Health Pro website, which offers specific travel advice based on your destination and itinerary.
Symptoms of Japanese Encephalitis
Most individuals infected with the Japanese Encephalitis virus experience no symptoms, or only mild, short-lived symptoms that can easily be mistaken for the flu. These symptoms typically include:
- Headaches
- High temperature (fever)
- Nausea
In the majority of cases, these symptoms subside on their own without the need for medical intervention. However, in about 1 in 250 cases, the infection can progress to more severe symptoms as the virus spreads to the brain. This usually occurs between 5 to 15 days after the initial infection. Severe symptoms may include:
- A severe headache that doesn’t improve
- Confusion or disorientation
- Paralysis or the inability to feel or move parts of your body
- Seizures (fits)
You’ll need to be treated in hospital if you’re seriously unwell because Japanese Encephalitis can be life-threatening.
It’s important to note that up to 1 in every 3 people who develop these more serious symptoms will die as a result of the infection.

Ways to lower your risk
The most effective way to reduce your risk of contracting Japanese Encephalitis is through vaccination. However, there are additional measures you can take to further lower your risk, especially when travelling to high-risk areas.
Here are some additional precautions:
- Use insect repellent with at least 50% DEET on exposed skin to prevent mosquito bites.
- Sleep under insecticide-treated mosquito nets to protect yourself from bites while resting.
- Wear long-sleeved shirts, trousers, and socks to limit exposed skin.
Do I need the vaccine?
If you are travelling to regions where Japanese Encephalitis is present, especially in rural areas, the vaccine is highly recommended. It is particularly important if you:
- Are travelling to a high-risk area
- Plan to stay in the area for more than a month
- Are staying in rural areas, such as near rice fields, wetlands, or pig farms
Our vaccination service and how it works
At Kamsons Pharmacy, we offer Japanese Encephalitis vaccinations, which can be administered in many of our pharmacies. To register for the vaccination service, simply complete our online questionnaire. One of our independent prescribers will review your form, and within two days, we recommend contacting your chosen branch to schedule your appointment.
The Japanese Encephalitis vaccine is available at Kamsons Pharmacy for £105 per dose. The full vaccination schedule consists of two doses, administered 28 days apart, to ensure full protection. In some cases, an accelerated vaccine course may be available. If you need your course to be completed sooner than the standard schedule, please consult with your pharmacist for advice.
In addition to the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine, Kamsons Pharmacy offers other travel-related services, including antimalarial medication, Period Delay services, and other travel vaccines.

FAQs
How effective is the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine?
The Japanese Encephalitis vaccine is highly effective, offering approximately 96% protection after the full two-dose course. This high level of protection makes the vaccine the most reliable method of preventing the disease.
When should I get the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine before traveling?
It’s best to receive the first dose at least five weeks before your trip, allowing enough time to complete the vaccination course and develop immunity.
Are there any side effects of the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine?
The Japanese Encephalitis vaccine is generally well-tolerated , most people experience no side effects. Common side effects are mild and may include soreness at the injection site or a slight headache. Serious side effects are rare.
How long will the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine protect me?
After completing the two-dose course, the vaccine provides long-lasting protection for 1-2 years. For individuals at continued risk, a booster dose may be required after one year to maintain immunity.
What are the areas at risk for Japanese Encephalitis?
Japanese Encephalitis is mostly found in rural parts of Asia but can also be present in India, China, Japan, South Korea, Indonesia, and Southeast Asia. Travellers heading to these regions should consult travel health resources for specific advice.