Overview
- Japanese encephalitis is caused by a virus. The virus is transmitted by the bite of an infected mosquito.
- Japanese encephalitis is the most common vaccine-preventable cause of encephalitis (inflammation of the brain) in Asia.
- Most infections are mild (e.g., fever and headache) or without apparent symptoms. However, a small percentage of infected people develop encephalitis, with symptoms including sudden onset of headache, high fever, disorientation, coma, tremors, and convulsions. About 1 in 4 cases are fatal.
- Vaccines are available to prevent Japanese encephalitis.
JE Vaccine Schedule
The Japanese encephalitis vaccine is recommended for children (2 months and older) and adults at increased risk of Japanese encephalitis during travel to Asia. The vaccine is given as a 2-dose series, with the doses spaced 28 days apart. Adults age 18 through 65 years can get the second dose as early as 7 days after the first dose. The second dose should be given at least 1 week before travel. A booster dose may be given to anyone who was vaccinated more than one year ago and is still at risk of exposure, or might be re-exposed.
Partner Resources
Find fact sheets, resources, multimedia, and more for parents and children from CDC.
The latest vaccine information for international travel. Browse the resources, or select your destination from the list and get health information for that location, including vaccination requirements.
The Japanese encephalitis chapter from the CDC Yellow Book for travel-associated infections and diseases.
Questions and answers about Japanese encephalitis and vaccines from the Vaccine Education Center at the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia.
The online global clinic directory is a database of International Society of Travel Medicine members and their global travel clinics. Users can search by location and by services offered.
People of any age can feel a bit anxious about getting a shot. Some may be so anxious that they avoid vaccination…even when they know it’s important. Learn more about simple ways to help any child or adult feel better and more confident when getting vaccinated.
State and local information for vaccination resources near you.
CDC Travelers’ Health: Find a Clinic