Japanese encephalitis is a mosquito-borne virus related to dengue, yellow fever, and West Nile viruses. In many Asian countries, it is the leading cause of viral encephalitis—a brain inflammation caused by a virus. The first case of the disease was documented in Japan in 1871.1

Japanese encephalitis can only be transmitted to humans via bites from infected mosquitoes. While animals such as pigs, waterbirds, and horses can catch the JE virus, they can’t transfer the virus to humans. JE transmission wouldn’t also occur between human to human or by eating meat from an infected animal.

Most people with Japanese encephalitis don’t experience any symptoms. In fact, only less than 4 out of 100 people develop any symptoms after contracting the virus. However, other people may experience the following symptoms of JE:

• Fever
• Headache
• Neck stiffness
• Vomiting
• Convulsions and seizures
• Muscle weakness and paralysis
• Fatigue and coma
• Confusion or agitation

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In March 2022, the Australian Government declared Japanese encephalitis as a Communicable Disease Incident of National Significance after multiple human cases were reported across various states in mainland Australia, including Queensland.2  Since December 2022, no new human cases have been identified in Australia. However, there’s still a risk for high mosquito activity during specific periods or regions. The mosquito season typically starts from early November through late April the following year in inland areas, whereas in coastal areas, it usually occurs earlier and ends at a later time.3

Certain Asian countries and parts of the western Pacific are also at risk for Japanese encephalitis, including Vietnam, Thailand, Taiwan, South Korea, Philippines, Papua New Guinea, Malaysia, Indonesia, Cambodia, Bangladesh, and Burma (Myanmar). Travelling to these areas, especially for extended periods or during peak mosquito seasons, increases the risk of exposure to Japanese encephalitis.

The JE vaccine is highly effective in preventing the disease, offering robust protection against the virus. It also minimises the risk of potentially devastating consequences of the disease. 20% to 30% of individuals who have severe clinical complications due to the JE virus also experience permanent intellectual, behavioural or neurological conditions (e.g., paralysis), or seizures. Vaccination significantly reduces the risk of these complications, especially for high-risk groups.4

The Communicable Disease Network Australia prioritises vaccination for high-risk groups for JE. The Queensland Government categorises the following individuals as at risk and should thus receive immunisation:

• People who work at or live near a piggery, pork abattoir, or pork rendering plant
• Pig doggers and hunters
• Entomologists or environmental health officers who work directly with mosquitoes
• Research laboratory workers who may be exposed to the virus
• People who live or work in the following local areas:

In line with our continuous efforts to provide comprehensive healthcare services, we offer accessible Japanese encephalitis vaccination in Gold Coast, Queensland, Australia. Our team of doctors offer all necessary travel vaccinations and health advice to keep yourself protected during your travels. Schedule your appointment with us today and take the first step to safeguarding your health. 

• Dr Mary McDevitt

• Dr Kerrie Davis
  

• Dr Michaelia Verbeek

• Dr Russell O’Brien

Coolangatta Medical Centre offers a comprehensive range of hepatitis A vaccines in the following areas in Gold Coast, Australia:

• Tweed Heads
• Tweed Heads South
• Tweed Heads West
• Bilinga
• Cobaki Lakes
• Tugun

Apart from drug and alcohol screening procedures, Coolangatta Medical Centre offers a spectrum of specialised services designed to ensure your holistic wellness. From preventive care to advanced diagnostics, our commitment to your health knows no bounds.

• Travel Vaccination
• Integrated Health Care
• Health Checks for All
• Meningitis Vaccine
• Iron Infusion
• Drug Testing

Full fee upfront is payable on the day of your appointment and will be processed with a credit/debit card token provided at the time of booking.

Medicare rebate is processed for you on your behalf by the administration team and will go back into the account that you have nominated with Medicare within 24 to 48 hours. For more information about Medicare rebates, see our FAQs page.

Out of pocket fee is the amount of money that you will be out of pocket after Medicare has processed your rebate.