Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine – Expert Protection at Corbett Pharmacy Droitwich Travel Clinic

Introduction: Why I Recommend the Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine

As Chief Pharmacist and Travel Clinic Lead at Corbett Pharmacy in Droitwich, I meet many patients travelling to Asia for holidays, work, or family visits. One of the most overlooked but serious diseases I warn them about is Japanese Encephalitis (JE).

Unlike more familiar illnesses like Chikungunya or Yellow Fever, Japanese Encephalitis is less well known – but it can have devastating consequences. It’s spread by mosquitoes and can cause inflammation of the brain, which in some cases leads to long-term disability or death.

The good news is that this disease is vaccine-preventable. That’s why we provide the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine at Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic, so you can explore Asia safely and with peace of mind.

➡️ Ready to protect yourself? Book your Japanese Encephalitis vaccine today

What is Japanese Encephalitis?

Japanese Encephalitis is a viral brain infection spread by the Culex mosquito, which thrives in rural and agricultural areas, particularly rice fields and pig farms.

Symptoms of Japanese Encephalitis include:

• Fever and chills

• Severe headache

• Vomiting

• Confusion or seizures

• Swelling of the brain (encephalitis)

• Long-term neurological damage (in some cases)

While most infected people experience mild or no symptoms, around 1 in 250 cases develop severe disease, and of those, up to 30% can be fatal. Survivors often live with long-term neurological complications.

You can find detailed guidance here: Fit for Travel – Japanese Encephalitis

Where is Japanese Encephalitis Found?

Japanese Encephalitis is found across rural Asia and the Western Pacific. Risk is highest in regions with rice farming, pig rearing, and during rainy or monsoon seasons when mosquito populations peak.

High-risk areas include:

• South-East Asia – Thailand, Vietnam, Cambodia, Laos

• South Asia – India, Nepal, Sri Lanka

• East Asia – China, Japan, Korea

• Indonesia – especially rural and island areas (see our Indonesia vaccine guide)

Even short-term travellers can be at risk if spending time outdoors in rural areas, particularly during the evening and night when mosquitoes are most active.

➡️ Unsure if your trip requires the vaccine? Book a consultation and I’ll advise you based on your itinerary: Book Now

How Does the Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine Work?

The Japanese Encephalitis vaccine provides strong protection by stimulating your immune system to recognise and fight the virus if you’re bitten by an infected mosquito.

Vaccine schedule at Corbett Pharmacy:

• Two doses required

• Given 28 days apart

• Should be completed at least 1 week before travel

• Provides long-term protection (up to several years)

We stock and administer this vaccine in Droitwich Spa, making it easy to get full protection without the hassle of long hospital referrals.

➡️ Learn more here: Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine – Droitwich Travel Clinic

Who Should Get the Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine?

I recommend this vaccine if you are:

• Travelling to rural or agricultural regions of Asia

• Staying for 1 month or longer in high-risk areas

• Taking part in outdoor activities such as trekking, camping, cycling, or fieldwork

• Visiting during monsoon or rainy seasons when mosquitoes are most active

• Working in healthcare, humanitarian aid, or military service in Asia

Even short-term travellers (less than a month) may need it if they are visiting rural areas or have extensive outdoor exposure.

Japanese Encephalitis vs. Other Mosquito-Borne Diseases

To help patients understand the risks, I often compare JE with other mosquito-borne illnesses:

This is why I often recommend combining the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine with others, depending on your destination.

Other Vaccines to Consider for Travel to Asia

If you’re travelling to Thailand, India, or Indonesia, you may also need:

• Hepatitis A – common across Asia

• Typhoid – especially in South Asia

• Rabies – for rural areas or animal exposure

• Tetanus – general protection for injuries abroad

• Cholera – for humanitarian workers or high-risk areas

➡️ We can create a personalised vaccination plan for your trip: Book Your Consultation

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine Side Effects

Most patients tolerate this vaccine very well.

Common mild side effects:

• Redness, swelling, or soreness at the injection site

• Mild fever or headache

• Muscle pain

Rare side effects:

• Allergic reaction

• Severe neurological symptoms (very rare)

This is why I always take a full medical history before vaccinating to ensure it’s safe and suitable for you.

Frequently Asked Questions – Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine

1. Is Japanese Encephalitis common in travellers?
No – it’s rare, but when it occurs, it can be extremely severe. That’s why prevention is strongly advised.

2. How long does the vaccine last?
Protection lasts several years. A booster may be needed if you travel again after a long gap.

3. Can children receive the vaccine?
Yes, it can be given from 2 months of age in some cases. I’ll advise you based on your child’s age and destination.

4. How soon before travel should I start the vaccine course?
At least 6 weeks before travel, to allow time for the two doses.

5. Do I need the vaccine if I’m only visiting a city like Bangkok or Delhi?
Probably not – risk is lower in urban areas. However, if you plan trips to rural regions, it may be recommended.

6. Is it available on the NHS?
No – it’s only available privately through clinics like ours.

Why Choose Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic?

Patients from across Droitwich, Worcester, and Worcestershire trust us for travel vaccines because:

• We provide all major travel vaccines in one location

• We are an independent, local pharmacy offering personal care

• I (Aran Bassi) carry out every consultation myself as Chief Pharmacist

• We’re an approved Yellow Fever centre and stock rarer vaccines like Japanese Encephalitis

➡️ Don’t leave your health to chance – book your Japanese Encephalitis vaccine today

Conclusion: Travel Smart, Travel Protected

Japanese Encephalitis is rare, but the consequences can be devastating. With a simple two-dose vaccine, you can protect yourself and travel with peace of mind.

At Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic, I’ll make sure you’re prepared for every step of your journey with the right vaccines and expert advice.

➡️ Book your Japanese Encephalitis vaccine now

Written by:
Aran Bassi
Chief Pharmacist & Travel Clinic Lead
Corbett Pharmacy – Droitwich Travel Clinic
36 Corbett Avenue, Droitwich, WR9 7BE
📞 01905 795618