Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine in Singapore (2024)

Japanese Encephalitis is an infection of the brain transmitted by mosquitoes, originating from the flavivirus family. Initially discovered in Japan in the late 1800s, it traces its roots back to the Indonesia-Malaysia region. Today, it's the primary cause of viral encephalitis in South East Asia and the Western Pacific, predominantly in rural locales known for pig farming and rice cultivation.

The majority of those infected with the Japanese Encephalitis virus exhibit no symptoms. When symptoms do occur, they can be severe, necessitating hospital care, and may lead to permanent brain damage or death.

Based on the World Health Organization (WHO),

• Symptomatic cases have a fatality rate of up to 30% and result in neurological impairments in 30 to 50% of cases.
• Only about 1 in 250 infected individuals will show symptoms, which can range from mild fever and headaches to more severe effects like nausea, seizures, and confusion, potentially leading to a coma.

Japanese Encephalitis has a presence in numerous countries across South and East Asia, with China accounting for half of all reported cases. The disease is endemic in 24 countries, and detailed geographical information can be found on the CDC website.

The most effective method to prevent Japanese Encephalitis for individuals travelling to high-risk areas is through vaccination. At ATA Medical, we use the ImoJev vaccine, which is a live, attenuated vaccine, meaning it contains a weakened form of the Japanese Encephalitis virus, which is designed to trigger an immune response without causing the disease itself.

Alongside vaccination, additional preventive measures are crucial to minimise the risk of mosquito bites. These include wearing permethrin-treated clothing, applying insect repellent, and using mosquito nets while sleeping, especially during the hours from dusk till dawn when mosquitoes are most active. These combined strategies provide a comprehensive approach to reducing the likelihood of contracting Japanese Encephalitis.

Based on the Society of Infectious Disease (Singapore), the vaccine is administered in a single dose.

The vaccine is advised for:

• Residents: Individuals relocating to live in JE-endemic regions.
• Long-term Travellers: Those visiting JE-endemic areas for a month or more, including frequent visitors.
• Short-term Travellers with Increased Risk: This includes travellers staying for less than a month who may have a higher risk of JE infection due to:
  • The duration of their travel
  • The season of their visit
  • Their travel locations
  • Planned activities
  • Types of accommodations
• Travellers with Uncertain Plans: Those going to endemic areas without a clear itinerary, including unknown travel durations, destinations, or activities, should consider getting vaccinated.

• Individuals with Previous Allergic Reactions: Those who have experienced a serious allergic reaction to a previous dose of IXIARO, any other Japanese Encephalitis (JE) vaccine, or any component of IXIARO, including protamine sulphate.
• Pregnant Women: Administration of IXIARO is generally advised to be deferred for pregnant women. However, exceptions may be made for pregnant women who must travel to areas with a high risk of JE infection. In such cases, vaccination should be considered only if the potential benefit of protection against JE outweighs the theoretical risks associated with immunisation.

Like all medicines, ImoJev can cause side effects, although not everybody gets them. These include (but are not limited to):

• Pain and Tenderness
• Mild Headaches
• Muscle Aches
• Low-Grade Fevers

They are typically mild and should disappear within a few days. However, if they persist or worsen, please seek medical attention.

If you see signs of a severe allergic reaction (hives, swelling of the face and throat, difficulty breathing, a fast heartbeat, dizziness, or weakness), please seek immediate medical attention.

Vaccinations offer significant individual benefits by boosting the immune system's ability to fight off specific infectious diseases. They reduce the risk of contracting serious illnesses, leading to fewer medical visits and a lower chance of hospitalization.

By staying up-to-date with vaccinations, individuals can also enjoy a greater sense of well-being and freedom to engage in various social activities, knowing they are protected against contagious diseases.

At ATA Medical, we offer a wide range of vaccinations to meet your various health needs, from travel to seasonal immunity, ensuring you are well-protected. Your vaccination will also be updated to the National Immunisation Registry (NIR) where relevant, this allows you to keep a record of the vaccinations.

Your vaccination will also be updated to the National Immunisation Registry (NIR) where relevant, this will allow you to keep a record of the vaccinations.

For group vaccinations at your home or other locations, please reach out to our friendly staff to find out more.

Rarely, severe allergic reactions might occur, such as swelling of the face or eyes, breathing difficulties, or widespread itchy rashes. Please seek immediate medical attention if any of these symptoms are observed.

Disclaimer: Note that this is not an exhaustive list of all possible side effects. The information above is also not meant to be substituted as medical advice. Please talk to a doctor if you have a medical concern.

ATA Medical is conveniently located at two different locations:

• Tanjong Pagar Medical Clinic (Closest MRT: Tanjong Pagar EW15)
• Orchard Clinic (Closest MRT: Orchard Boulevard TE13)

Our vaccination clinics are conveniently located in Central Singapore. Same day appointments for vaccinations are available.

• Tanjong Pagar Medical Clinic (Closest MRT: Tanjong Pagar EW15)
• Orchard Clinic (Closest MRT: Orchard Boulevard TE13)

Orchard Clinic

Tanjong Pagar Clinic

Travel Related Consultation with Dr Jana Lim