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Schedule Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine | Walgreens

Japanese encephalitis vaccine

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Vaccines offered at Walgreens vary by state, age and health conditions. Talk to your local pharmacist about availability.
Quick facts
Recommended for
Travelers
Frequency
2 doses 28 days apart at
least 1 week prior to travel

What is Japanese encephalitis?

Japanese encephalitis is a serious infection caused by a virus present in many parts of Asia. The virus is spread between mosquitoes and animals, such as pigs and wading birds. If an infected mosquito bites a human, it can lead to infection and illness, but the infection cannot be spread from person to person.

Most people who become infected have no symptoms, although some may experience fever and headache. The most common complication is swelling of the brain. About 25 percent of cases with severe encephalitis infections can result in death.

Frequently Asked Questions

  • The Japanese encephalitis vaccine is an inactivated vaccine that is very effective at preventing infection. It’s a 2-dose vaccine administered 28 days apart. The second dose must be completed at least 1 week before travel. The vaccine is CDC approved for people ages 2+ months.

    To learn more about the Japanese encephalitis vaccine from the CDC, download this PDF or visit the CDC website.

    • Travelers ages 2+ months who plan to live or travel to rural areas of Asia where the virus is prevalent
    • People who remain at risk of exposure 1 year after their initial 2 doses
    • Laboratory workers who may have been exposed to the virus
    • Anyone with moderate or severe illness should wait until they recover to be vaccinated
    • Anyone with a life-threatening allergy to any vaccine component, such as protamine sulfate, or any ingredient in the vaccine

    People who are pregnant or plan to become pregnant should ask their doctor if they should receive the vaccine.

  • Mild-to-moderate side effects:
    • Soreness, redness or swelling at the injection site
    • Headache, muscle aches or fever
    Severe side effects, although rare, may include serious allergic reactions. Symptoms include:
    • High fever or behavior changes
    • Difficulty breathing, hoarseness or wheezing
    • Hives
    • Paleness
    • Weakness
    • Fast heartbeat
    • Dizziness
    Over-the-counter pain relievers such as acetaminophen or ibuprofen can help ease pain and reduce fever. Contact your doctor or pharmacist if you have any unexpected or worsening reactions after receiving a vaccine.

If you believe you have a medical emergency, please call 911.

References:

Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. CDC Yellow Book 2020: Health Information for International Travel. New York: Oxford University Press; 2017.


Vaccine Information Statement: Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine (What You Need to Know) Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC). 08/15/2019. https://www.cdc.gov/vaccines/hcp/vis/vis-statements/je-ixiaro.pdf Accessed September 2021.


Note: This publication should be used for general educational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice. Although it is intended to be accurate, neither Walgreen Co., its subsidiaries or affiliates, nor any other party assumes liability for loss or damage due to reliance on this publication.