Japanese encephalitis: a review of clinical guidelines and vaccine availability in Asia

Abstract

Travelers to Asia are at risk for acquiring Japanese Encephalitis (JEV), an arbovirus with high rates of morbidity and mortality. Recent advances in vaccination resulting in vaccines with low rates of side effects have strengthened the rationale to vaccinate more travelers to this region, as reflected in many updated national guidelines for prevention of disease in travelers. Vaccines however still require a complex pre-travel schedule and are costly, often leading to a requirement or desire for a vaccination option in the destination country. We explore current national guidelines for prevention of Japanese Encephalitis and seek to provide information on availability of JEV vaccines in various Asian countries.