About Japanese Encephalitis
As one of the deadliest viral diseases, rabies poses a significant risk for travellers venturing into certain parts of the world. Understanding the importance of rabies vaccination can safeguard your health and ensure a worry-free journey. At Purley Travel Clinic, our expert pharmacy team, hailing from one of the longest-running pharmacies in South London, is here to provide you with the essential vaccinations and advice you need. Let's dive into everything you need to know about rabies vaccination.
Ready To Book?
What is Japanese encephalitis and why it matters to travellers
Japanese encephalitis is a virus spread by Culex mosquitoes that are most active at dusk and through the night. It’s found mainly in rural or peri‑urban areas where rice fields and pig farming create breeding grounds for the mosquito. Most infections cause no or mild symptoms, but a small number lead to severe brain inflammation, which can result in long‑term disability or death. The overall risk for short stays in cities is low, but the chance of infection rises for longer stays, rural travel or night‑time outdoor activities.
About the JE vaccine — what to expect
The JE vaccine used in the UK (IXIARO®) is an inactivated vaccine licensed for adults and children from two months of age. The standard primary course is two doses given 28 days apart; an accelerated schedule (day 0 and day 7) can be used if time is short, but the course should be completed at least one week before potential exposure. A booster dose is advised for people who remain at ongoing risk (usually around 12 months after the primary course), and further boosters may be recommended for continued exposure. Common side effects include injection‑site soreness, mild fever or muscle aches that usually resolve within a few days. The vaccine is usually not given during pregnancy unless the travel risk justifies it; we’ll discuss this when we assess you.
Who should consider the JE vaccine and where it’s relevant
JE is most relevant in rural parts of East and Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific, particularly where there is rice cultivation or pig farming. You should consider vaccination if you plan to: stay for a month or more in these areas (especially during the local transmission season), live or work there, or do rural night‑time activities such as camping, trekking or agricultural work. Short urban trips are typically low risk, but vaccination might be advised if your itinerary includes uncertain plans, rural excursions or frequent travel to these regions. We’ll review your destinations, length of stay and activities to give tailored advice.
Book your JE vaccine appointment in North London
If your travel plans put you at risk of Japanese encephalitis, getting vaccinated early is the most practical step. North London Travel Clinics run clinics at Zaxgate Pharmacy (Brent St, NW4) and Frank Wreford Pharmacy (Neasden Ln, NW10) with friendly staff and flexible appointment times. Call 020 8450 7873 to check availability and get advice about timing, children’s doses or boosters. We welcome families and travellers from Wembley, Harrow, Brent, Cricklewood, Finchley, Edgware, Ealing and Acton and will help you leave with clear next steps and any other travel vaccines you need.
FAQs