An unvaccinated man aged in his 60s from the NE province of Gangwon-do is the first (presumptive) case of Japanese encephalitis (JE) this season, with confirmation through the KCDC to follow. Sporadic cases occur each year, averaging around 20 and routine JE vaccination is recommended for anyone born from 2010 onwards. Read more
Advice for travellers
A mosquito-borne virus, JE is usually found in many part of Asia, the Indian subcontinent, Southeast Asia and China, although cases also occur in Indonesia and PNG, and now parts of Australia. It is mainly found in rural areas around rice paddies where pigs, wading birds and humans live closely together, however it does also occur in or near cities. The risk to short-stay travellers who confine their travel to urban centres and use appropriate mosquito bite avoidance measures is low. The recommendations for vaccination are itinerary-specific. Read more on JE.
Before you travel, call Travelvax Australia’s telephone advisory service on 1300 360 164 (toll-free from landlines) for country-specific advice and information. You can also make an appointment at your nearest Travelvax clinic to obtain vaccinations, medication to prevent or treat illness, and accessories for your journey.