Japanese Encephalitis

This viral infection is transmitted by Culex mosquitoes in Asia and Southeast Asia. Transmission occurs throughout the year in tropical and sub-tropical climates, and during late spring, summer, and early fall in temperate areas. The mosquitos breed in flooded rice fields and irrigation projects. Pigs and some bird species are natural carriers of the virus.

Travellers to endemic areas should take measures to prevent mosquito bites. Insect-bite prevention measures include applying a DEET-containing repellent to exposed skin and applying permethrin spray or solution to clothing and gear. Using a permethrin-treated bed net will also decrease risk of infection.

Vaccination is recommended for persons travelling extensively in rural areas, living and working near rice growing rural and suburban areas, as well as other irrigated land where exposure to mosquitos transmitting the disease is high. Children are especially susceptible to the infection.

Risk of Japanese Encephalitis is present in the following countries:



Bookmark and Share
Follow us on TwitterJoin us on Facebook

Travel Destination

Please select your travel destination.

Create Your own Travel Health Guide

Select your travel destinations, and get an instant, personalized guide to our medical services and comprehensive travel health information for the countries your are visiting. Print a copy or save securely for future online access. The Travel Health Planner is also accessible on your mobile!

Member Services Login

IAMAT Blog

Polio No Longer A Real Threat? Think Again

June 23, 2010

The recent polio (poliomyelitis) outbreaks in Central Asia (Tajikistan, Uzbekistan, Russia) are reminders of how travel and migration can contribute to the re-emergence of a disease in a region previously declared free of infection.
Spotlight on South Africa

May 6, 2010

Counting down the days to the start of the Soccer World Cup tournament? This year it's being held in South Africa from June 11 to July 11. It's one of the few events that brings out extreme emotions among fans, and like other world sporting events, this tournament will bring attention to the country's natural beauty, history, and cultures.
Reflections on World Malaria Day

April 23, 2010

Malaria infection continues to be the biggest health threat to travellers going to malaria endemic countries. As travellers, we are equipped with knowledge about prevention methods, the geographic distribution of malaria, and we also have access to prophylactic medication and bed net protection.