health

Japanese encephalitis is the only encephalitis for which there is an effective
vaccine for humans. People planning a trip to Japan or eastern Asia
may want to consider being vaccinated before departure. There was a
vaccine for horses against West Nile virus but not one for humans as
of late 2008.

Other preventive measures to lower one’s risk of encephalitis
include:

• Draining water from bird baths, wading pools, and other outdoor
  water containers when not in use.
  
• Using insect repellent when outdoors; applying it to exposed skin
  and spraying clothing with repellent.
  
• Wearing long-sleeved shirts and long pants on hikes or other outdoor
  activities when the weather permits.
  
• Keeping window and door screens in good repair so that mosquitoes
  cannot get inside the house.
  
• Covering baby strollers or carriers with mosquito netting when
  taking the baby for a walk outdoors.
• Having pet dogs and cats vaccinated against rabies, and avoiding
  bats, raccoons, and other wild animals that are acting aggressive.
  
• Avoiding sexual contact with people infected by genital herpes.
  Avoiding kissing or sharing drinking glasses with people with cold
  sores.
  
• Having children vaccinated against diseases such as measles and
  mumps.
  
• Seeking prompt medical treatment for any high fever associated
  with an infection.