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Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine

Japanese encephalitis is a mosquito-borne viral illness that can cause serious brain inflammation. Vaccination is recommended for travellers spending extended time in rural areas of Asia.

Protects against
Japanese encephalitis virus
Doses
2 doses, 28 days apart (accelerated 7-day schedule available)
Schedule
Complete the series at least 1 week before travel
Duration
At least 1 year; booster at 1–2 years extends to ~10 years

What it protects against

Japanese encephalitis virus, transmitted by Culex mosquitoes in rural Asian rice-farming regions.

Who should get it

  • Travellers spending >1 month in rural Asia
  • Short-term travellers with heavy outdoor/rural exposure
  • Travel during rainy season (May–October)

Not recommended for

  • Severe allergy to vaccine component

Destinations where Japanese Encephalitis is recommended

Rural Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos
Rural India, Nepal
Rural Philippines, Indonesia
Parts of China, Korea, Japan

Side effects & safety

  • Mild soreness at injection site
  • Headache, fatigue (uncommon)
  • Very safe

Key facts

  • 1Not needed for short urban/resort trips
  • 2Mosquito that carries JE typically bites dusk to dawn
  • 3Accelerated 7-day schedule exists for last-minute travellers

Need the japanese encephalitis for your trip?

Book a virtual consultation with a licensed Canadian physician. We'll review your itinerary, issue the prescription, and administer the vaccine at our Toronto pharmacy.

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Frequently asked: Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine

Do I need JE vaccine for a two-week trip to Bangkok and Phuket?

No — Japanese encephalitis vaccine is not recommended for short urban or resort trips. It is reserved for rural travel or extended stays.

Explore other travel vaccines

This information is for educational purposes only and does not replace an individual medical consultation. Recommendations vary based on your health history, destination, and planned activities. A consultation with our licensed physician is required before any prescription or vaccine is issued.