Prevention of Japanese encephalitis

Learn how Japanese encephalitis can be prevented.

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• How can Japanese encephalitis infections be prevented?
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How can Japanese encephalitis infections be prevented?

You can prevent Japanese encephalitis by getting vaccinated.

Consult a health care provider or visit a travel health clinic preferably 6 weeks before you travel. Your health care provider may discuss the benefits of getting vaccinated if you are at a higher risk of exposure.

It is recommended that the following travellers consider getting vaccinated:

• those spending a month or more in a rural or urban area where Japanese encephalitis is present
• those spending a large amount of time outdoors in a rural or urban area where Japanese encephalitis is present
  • this applies to those travelling or living in the area for less than a month
  • the risk increases if you plan to spend a lot of time outdoors at night

Most travellers going to countries where Japanese encephalitis occurs are at low risk. However, you can help prevent Japanese encephalitis by protecting yourself from mosquito bites, especially from sunset to sunrise.