Travelling to Thailand? Book at Todmorden Clinic for Japanese encephalitis vaccination and clear local advice on hepatitis A, rabies, typhoid and other travel risks. Book online.
61A Halifax Rd
Todmorden
OL14 5BB
Safe travel to Thailand starts in Todmorden
What is Japanese encephalitis and why it matters to travellers
Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a viral infection carried by infected mosquitoes. It is most likely to affect people spending time in rural or agricultural areas — particularly around rice fields or pig farms — and mosquitoes that spread JE bite mainly between dusk and dawn. Most travellers will never get JE, but the illness can cause severe brain inflammation in a small number of cases. That’s why risk depends on where you go, how long you stay and what you plan to do.
About the Japanese encephalitis vaccine
The JE vaccine helps the immune system recognise and fight the virus that causes Japanese encephalitis. It’s usually recommended for travellers who will: stay for a month or more in areas where JE is present; travel frequently to rural or endemic areas; be uncertain about their exact itinerary or activities; or work in settings with increased exposure. The vaccine is given as a course of injections — your clinician will advise the right schedule for you. Start the course in good time before travel where possible; if your trip is soon, we’ll still assess what can be done. The vaccine is generally well tolerated; common side effects are mild and short lived (soreness at the injection site, low-grade fever). It does not give absolute protection, so bite avoidance and other precautions remain important.
Where in Thailand the JE vaccine may be relevant
JE occurs across Thailand with seasonal peaks in some regions. Risk is higher in rural and agricultural zones (for example, valleys and areas with rice cultivation) and can be greater during the May–October transmission season in parts of the north such as the Chiang Mai area. Short urban stays in cities like Bangkok or popular tourist islands are typically lower risk. If your plans include overnight stays in rural villages, farm visits, trekking or long stays, JE vaccination should be discussed as part of your travel health plan.
Book your travel health appointment in Todmorden
If you’re travelling to Thailand, drop by Todmorden Clinic for a clear, practical assessment of JE risk and other travel vaccinations (hepatitis A, typhoid, rabies and more). We offer friendly, local access and appointments suited to families and solo travellers alike. Find us at 61A Halifax Rd, Todmorden OL14 5BB. Opening hours: Monday–Friday 9am–6pm, Saturday 9am–1pm. Serve nearby areas including Halifax, Rochdale, Burnley, Hebden Bridge and Keighley. Book quickly and securely at /booking or call to check availability.
FAQs
Who should get the Japanese encephalitis vaccine before travelling to Thailand?
It’s usually advised for travellers planning long stays (around a month or more), frequent visits to rural or agricultural areas, or those whose itinerary is uncertain. Short trips limited to major cities are generally lower risk, but we’ll assess individual plans at your appointment.
How soon before travel do I need the vaccine?
Where possible allow a few weeks to complete the vaccine course so you’re fully protected before exposure. If your departure is soon, book anyway — we’ll review options and plan what can be done safely.
Can children get the JE vaccine?
Children in risk groups can be offered JE vaccination, but age-specific advice and schedules vary. Bring children to a clinic appointment so we can provide tailored guidance and make the vaccination as straightforward as possible.
Will the JE vaccine cover me against other mosquito-borne diseases, like dengue or Zika?
No. The JE vaccine protects against Japanese encephalitis only. Dengue, Zika and chikungunya are spread by different mosquitoes and require bite-avoidance measures; some (but not all) have specific vaccine guidance. We’ll cover all relevant prevention steps for your trip.
How do I book and what should I bring to my appointment?
Book online at /booking for a straightforward appointment. Bring your passport, details of your travel itinerary (dates and destinations), and any previous vaccination records. If you have health conditions or take medication, bring a brief summary so we can tailor advice.
Ready To Book An Appointment?
Our years of vaccination experience across both the NHS and private sector means you are in great hands, so get ready to take your first step for your trip today!
