The results of testing performed on sentinel pigs in an arbovirus surveillance program in Kumamoto prefecture have led to a Japanese encephalitis (JE) warning after one animal was found to have antibodies to JEV. With evidence of recent viral circulation, residents of the central Kyushu prefecture have been advised to take measures to avoid mosquito bites. 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.