Japanese Encephalitis is a viral infection spread through mosquito bites in parts of Asia and the Western Pacific. In rare cases it can cause serious brain inflammation and neurological complications.

The virus is spread through bites from infected mosquitoes, particularly in rural farming regions, rice fields and areas with standing water.

Most infections cause mild or no symptoms, but severe cases can lead to fever, headaches, confusion, seizures and inflammation of the brain.

Japanese Encephalitis is found in parts of Southeast Asia, South Asia, China, Japan and the Western Pacific, especially in rural agricultural areas.

Vaccination may be recommended for long-stay travellers, backpackers, rural travellers and individuals visiting higher-risk regions during mosquito season.

Risk can be reduced by vaccination, using insect repellent, wearing long clothing, sleeping under mosquito nets and avoiding mosquito bites where possible.