Preventing Japanese Encephalitis

Key points

  • Japanese encephalitis virus is spread through the bite of an infected mosquito.
  • Japanese encephalitis occurs in Asia and parts of the western Pacific.
  • The best way to prevent Japanese encephalitis is to prevent mosquito bites and get vaccinated before traveling, if vaccination is recommended for you.
Person applying insect repellent to their arm.

Prevention tips

Japanese encephalitis virus is spread to people through the bite of an infected mosquito. Mosquitoes bite during the day and night. Japanese encephalitis occurs in Asia and parts of the western Pacific.

The best way to prevent Japanese encephalitis is to protect yourself from mosquito bites and get vaccinated before traveling, if vaccination is recommended for you.

  • Use insect repellent
  • Wear long-sleeved shirts and pants
  • Treat clothing and gear with 0.5% permethrin
  • Choose lodging with air conditioning, screens on windows and doors, or use a mosquito net if you will be sleeping outdoors

Additional information about protecting yourself from mosquito bites while you are traveling is available on the CDC Mosquitoes website.

Getting vaccinated‎

All travelers to countries with risk of Japanese encephalitis should take steps to avoid mosquito bites and discuss the need for vaccination with their healthcare provider.
About Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine
Print
Content Source:
National Center for Emerging and Zoonotic Infectious Diseases (NCEZID)