Culex mosquito transmitted the Japanese encephalitis virus to humans.
Nurse giving Japanese encephalitis vaccination inject to a female patient 30 days before travelling to a JE endemic region.
Culex mosquito transmitted the Japanese encephalitis virus to humans.

What Is Japanese Encephalitis?

Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a mosquito-borne viral infection that affects the brain, belonging to the Flaviviridae family. First identified in Japan during the late 19th century, its origins can be traced back to the Indonesia-Malaysia region. The disease is endemic in 24 countries and prevalent in others across South and East Asia, with China accounting for nearly half of all reported cases.

Japanese Encephalitis Symptoms

Most people infected with JE show no symptoms. However, when symptoms do occur, they can be severe, potentially leading to hospitalisation, permanent neurological damage, or even death. According to the World Health Organization (WHO):

  • Symptoms appear in about 1 in 250 infected individuals, ranging from mild fever and headaches to more serious signs like nausea, seizures, and confusion, with severe cases potentially leading to coma.
  • Symptoms appear in about 1 in 250 infected individuals, ranging from mild fever and headaches to more serious signs like nausea, seizures, and confusion, with severe cases potentially leading to coma.
  • Among survivors, 30% to 50% may experience lasting cognitive, behavioural, or neurological problems, such as hearing or vision loss, speech and language difficulties, memory and communication issues, seizures, or limb weakness.

Japanese Encephalitis Prevention

Preventive measures for JE focus on reducing the risk of mosquito bites. These include wearing permethrin-treated clothing, applying insect repellent, and using mosquito nets, especially from dusk to dawn when mosquitoes are most active.

However, vaccination remains the most effective safeguard against JE for those travelling to high-risk areas. At healthscreening.sg, we offer the Imojev® vaccine, a live attenuated vaccine containing a weakened form of the JE virus, designed to stimulate an immune response without causing the disease.

Who Is the Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine Recommended for?

The vaccine is recommended for:

  • Residents: Those relocating to JE-endemic areas.
  • Long-term Travellers: Individuals staying in endemic regions for a month or more, including frequent visitors.
  • Short-term Travellers at Increased Risk: Those staying for under a month but are at heightened risk due to factors like planned travel duration, season, location, activities, or accommodations.
  • Travellers with Uncertain Plans: Those visiting endemic areas without a clear itinerary or with uncertain durations, destinations, or activities.
healthscreening.sg offers ImoJev, a live, attenuated vaccine for Japanese Encephalitis, recommended for travellers to high-risk areas.

Who Should NOT Receive the Vaccine?

The vaccine is not recommended for:

  • Individuals with Previous Allergic Reactions: Those who have had a severe allergic reaction to a previous dose of the JE vaccine (such as Ixiaro®) or any of its components, including protamine sulphate.
  • Pregnant Women: Generally, Ixiaro® administration is deferred for pregnant women unless they must travel to areas with a high risk of JE infection. In such cases, vaccination may be considered if the benefits outweigh the potential risks.

If you are unsure whether this applies to you, please consult a doctor for medical advice.

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine Route of Administration

The vaccine is administered via an intramuscular injection.

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine Dose & Schedule

The recommended dosage schedule for the Imojev® JE vaccine is as follows:

Vaccination Status Vaccine Dosage & Schedule
Unvaccinated Adults 1 dose: 30 days before travel

How Long Does the Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine Last?

The Imojev® JE vaccine typically provides protection for more than 10 years after a single dose. If there is a continuous risk of exposure after 1 year, booster doses may be needed. It is advisable to consult a doctor for personalised advice.

What Precautions Should I Take Prior to a Japanese Encephalitis Immunisation?

Before receiving the JE vaccine, make sure to inform your doctor if you:

  • Have any allergies to the vaccine or its components, or if you’ve had an allergic reaction to a previous dose,
  • Are currently pregnant or breastfeeding,
  • Are immunocompromised or are currently undergoing immunosuppressive therapies such as chemotherapy or high-dose systemic corticosteroids for 14 days or more.

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine Side Effects

Some people may experience minor side effects such as dizziness, pain or redness at the injection site, and headaches. These reactions are usually mild and temporary, but you should seek medical advice if they persist or worsen.

Uncommon but Severe Reactions to Look Out for After Your Vaccination

In rare cases, vaccinations may trigger severe allergic reactions, such as swelling of the face or eyes, breathing difficulties, or widespread itchy rashes. Should any of these symptoms occur, immediate medical attention is required.

Disclaimer: This is not a comprehensive list of potential side effects. The information provided should not replace professional medical advice. Always consult a doctor if you have any concerns before receiving a vaccination.

Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine Cost in Singapore

Vaccination Price*
Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine (ImoJev) $325/dose

*Prices are NETT and inclusive of GST.

If you're planning to visit regions with a heightened risk of other infectious diseases, consider receiving additional travel vaccinations as well.

For home-based, group, or corporate vaccinations, please contact us for more information.

How Do I Book a Japanese Encephalitis Vaccination Appointment in Singapore?

Book Vaccination Now
Book or Enquire Through WhatsApp At 88933757
Ask Through Email At hello@healthscreening.sg

Why Use Us?

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.

The Importance of Vaccinations

Vaccinations play a vital role in strengthening the immune system, enabling it to more effectively combat specific infectious diseases. By reducing the likelihood of contracting serious illnesses, vaccinations help decrease the need for frequent doctor visits and significantly lower the risk of hospitalisation.

Keeping up with recommended vaccinations allows individuals to lead a healthier lifestyle, confidently engaging in social activities with the assurance that they are protected against contagious diseases.

At healthscreening.sg, we offer a comprehensive range of vaccination options tailored to your health needs, from travel-related to seasonal protection, ensuring your health is thoroughly safeguarded. Your vaccination will be updated in the National Immunisation Registry (NIR) where applicable, allowing you to maintain a record of your immunisations.

Dr Leonard Leng: By staying current with our vaccinations, we not only protect ourselves but also shield our family and loved ones from contagious and serious diseases.
Dr Leonard Leng: By staying current with our vaccinations, we not only protect ourselves but also shield our family and loved ones from contagious and serious diseases.

Travel Clinics in Singapore

ATA Medical is conveniently located at two different locations:

ATA Medical Orchard Clinic with Health Screening Nurses and Staff.
Orchard Clinic
ATA Medical Tanjong Pagar Clinic with Health Screening Nurses and Staff
Tanjong Pagar Clinic
Patient having a health screening review with Dr Jana Lim of ATA Medical.
Post-screening consult with Dr Jana Lim

Navigate Easy With Google Maps

Health Screening Singapore
(Anson House)

Nearest MRT: EW15 Tanjong Pagar

Health Screening Singapore
(Camden Medical Centre)

Nearest MRT: TE13 Orchard Boulevard

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

How far in advance do you need a Japanese encephalitis vaccine?

It is recommended to get the Imojev® JE vaccine at least 30 days before travelling to areas where the disease is endemic. This allows enough time for the body to develop immunity.

Do I need the Japanese encephalitis vaccine for Singapore?

The Japanese Encephalitis vaccine is generally not required for travel to Singapore, as the risk of infection is very low. However, it may be recommended if you plan to travel to rural areas in nearby countries where the disease is more prevalent.

What is the schedule for the Japanese encephalitis vaccine?

For the inactivated vaccine (Ixiaro®), the standard schedule is two doses given 28 days apart. For the live attenuated vaccine (Imojev®), a single dose 30 days before travel is sufficient for long-term protection.

When should I get the Japanese encephalitis vaccine before travelling?

You should receive the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine at least 30 days before travelling to allow sufficient time for immunity to develop.

Do I really need the Japanese encephalitis vaccine?

You may need the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine if you are travelling to areas where the disease is endemic, particularly in rural or agricultural regions in Asia. The vaccine is especially recommended for long-term travellers or those with high exposure risks.

How much does the Japanese encephalitis vaccine cost?

At healthscreening.sg, we provide the Imojev® JE vaccine at $325 NETT and inclusive of GST.

What are the 2 compulsory vaccines in Singapore?

The two compulsory vaccines for children in Singapore are the Bacillus Calmette-Guérin (BCG) vaccine for tuberculosis and the Hepatitis B vaccine.

How common is Japanese encephalitis in Singapore?

Japanese Encephalitis is rare in Singapore, with very few cases reported annually. The risk of contracting the disease in Singapore is considered extremely low.

Who is eligible for a free Japanese encephalitis vaccine?

In Singapore, the Japanese Encephalitis vaccine is not typically provided for free. However, subsidy schemes such as the Pioneer Generation, Merdeka Generation, and CHAS (Community Health Assist Scheme) may reduce the cost for eligible individuals. Please contact us for more information on your eligibility for these schemes.

What is the price of the Japanese encephalitis vaccine?

At healthscreening.sg, we offer the Imojev® JE vaccine at $325 NETT and inclusive of GST.

What is the age limit for Japanese encephalitis vaccine?

The Ixiaro® vaccine is approved for use in individuals aged 2 months and older. The Imojev® vaccine is typically recommended for individuals aged 9 months and older.

Which mosquito causes Japanese encephalitis?

Japanese Encephalitis is primarily transmitted by mosquitoes of the Culex species, particularly Culex tritaeniorhynchus.

Who is at risk for Japanese encephalitis?

People at risk for Japanese Encephalitis include those living in or travelling to rural or agricultural areas in Asia, especially during the transmission season. This includes individuals who engage in outdoor activities or stay in poorly protected accommodations.

Should I worry about Japanese encephalitis?

If you are travelling to or living in an area where Japanese Encephalitis is endemic, especially rural parts of Asia, you should consider vaccination and take precautions against mosquito bites. However, if your travel is limited to urban areas or short stays, the risk is lower.

When is the risk season for Japanese encephalitis?

The risk season for Japanese Encephalitis typically coincides with the rainy season, when mosquito activity is highest. This varies by country, but generally falls between May and October in many parts of Asia.