The Japanese Encephalitis vaccine is recommended for patients over 2 months of age at risk of contracting Japanese Encephalitis:
Patients who are going to reside in an area where Japanese Encephalitis is endemic or epidemic
Travellers who are planning to stay a month or longer in the risk area during the transmission season, especially if travel will include rural areas
Travellers who have a shorter itinerary if risk is considered sufficient, for example, those spending time in rice fields (where the mosquito that carries the virus breeds), or close to pig farms (common area for the virus)
The vaccine is administered via intramuscular injection in the deltoid region. The course consists of two doses. The second dose needs to be given ideally 28 days after the first. You are protected from seven days after the second dose. The vaccine protects you for at least 12 months, so you need a booster 12-24 months later to remain protected after one year. The vaccine can cause side effects such as digestive problems, a high temperature and muscle pain. You may also notice soreness at the injection site. When you arrive at the pharmacy you will be required to fill in a consent form with a short questionnaire to see if you fit the inclusion criteria for the vaccine. The form can be downloaded to view and fill in before your appointment.
