Japanese encephalitis is a serious viral brain infection that can cause permanent brain damage. The virus starts in animals like birds and pigs and is carried to humans through mosquitos who have previously bitten an infected animal.
There’s no cure for Japanese Encephalitis so if you’re infected, the only kind of treatment you’ll receive will be aimed at reducing your symptoms. If you’re at risk of exposure, the effective Japanese Encephalitis vaccine can protect you against infection.
Where Is Japanese Encephalitis Found?
People in the UK generally don’t have to worry about Japanese Encephalitis, or JE. The virus is mainly found in southeast asia, the pacific islands, and the far east. Two thirds of cases happen in children under the age of 15 Most cases occur in China, but it can also be found in:
- Australia
- Cambodia
- India
- Indonesia
- Japan
- Malaysia
- Nepal
- Pakistan
- The Philippines
- Russia
- Singapore
- South Korea
- Thailand
- Taiwan
- Vietnam
Japanese Encephalitis Symptoms
Many people with JE will not experience any noticeable symptoms at all. Others might have mild symptoms that are similar to the flu. However, 1 in 250 people will go on to develop severe symptoms as the virus spreads to the brain. This usually occurs 5-15 days after the initial infection.
The reason JE is such a serious virus is because of the catastrophic damage it can cause to the brain. Encephalitis means “inflammation of the brain” and when it occurs, it can lead to life-altering symptoms all throughout the body. Once someone starts experiencing more severe symptoms, 1 in 3 will die.
Symptoms include:
- High grade fever
- Stiff neck
- Muscle weakness
- Confusion
- Trouble speaking
- Seizures
- Tremors
For those who do not succumb to the virus, it can take months for them to recover and many will not make a full recovery. Survivors can be left with permanent brain damage, personality changes, and paralysis.
Japanese Encephalitis Vaccination in Bromley, Northampton, and Northolt
Before you travel, book an appointment at one of Touchwood Pharmacy’s travel clinics. We can advise you and vaccinate you against foreign illnesses like JE. Book online today for Japanese Encephalitis Vaccination in Walsall, Sydenham, and Ramsgate. You can also get the Japanese Encephalitis Vaccination in Leighton Buzzard, Hanwell, and Camberley.
