Japanese encephalitis is a severe viral infection of the brain that is spread by mosquitoes. Found extensively in Asia. The disease is usually asymptomatic or only causes mild symptoms. A symptomatic disease is often severe and begins with flu-like symptoms. Of those severely ill approximately a third will die. Additionally a disease with severe symptoms leaves permanent damage for approximately a third of those who recover. The risk of infection is low for tourists who do not spend much time in rural areas. Protection from mosquitoes is nevertheless important, especially during the dark times of the day. The vaccine is not included in the National Vaccination Programme. The vaccine can be purchased by prescription from pharmacies and medical centres.

• Lääkeinfo.fi: Ixiaro (in Finnish)
• THL, Traveller’s Health Guide: Japanese encephalitis (in Finnish)
• WHO, Fact Sheet, Japanese Encephalitis