Japanese Encephalitis
This virus is transmitted by Culex mosquitoes that feed between dusk and dawn. They are more common in flooded rice paddies and near swine (Pig farms).Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine is used to protect local populations in Asia who are mostly at risk. Others such as military personnel or expatriates (people who live as residents

during a transmission season) may consider the vaccine. In most Asian countries the peak Japanese Encephalitis season lasts about 5 months and traveler's need only be vaccinated if at high risk during that time.
Risk Factors for Travelers Include:
1) Travel to endemic country
2) Travel during transmission season (see chart)
3) Travel to rural areas (worse in rice paddies or near pig farms)
4) Extended period of residence or travel 3-4wks
5) Advanced age
6) Pregnancy (risk to developing fetus)
7) Extended outdoor exposure - bicycling or camping in peak areas
Protective Factors
1) Repellents
2) Protective clothing
3) Residence in air conditioned or well-screened areas
4) Permethrin mosquito nets
The Japanese Encephalitis vaccine is given in 3 doses, which are administered at 0,7, and 14-21 days, with a booster at 3 years, and should not be given during pregnancy. Side effects of vaccination include local redness and soreness at vaccination site, low-grade fever, and muscle aches. Allergic reactions to JEV have occurred up to 20-36 hours after vaccination, which are treatable with Corticosteroids and antihistamines.
In conclusion, Japanese Encephalitis is extremely rare in travelers' but may be indicated in select people.
Reference:
The Textbook of Travel Medicine and Health, Second Edition 2001 Herbert L. Dupont, M.D., Robert Steffen, M.D.
CDC Yellow Book 2001
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