Japanese encephalitis virus

Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) is a mosquito-borne virus that can cause serious brain inflammation, primarily in rural Asia and parts of the Western Pacific. Most infections are mild or asymptomatic, but in some cases, it can lead to severe neurological symptoms and long-term complications or even death. The virus primarily spreads through the bite of infected mosquitoes, often in areas with rice paddies or pig farms, which are key in its lifecycle. Vaccination is available and recommended for travelers to high-risk areas, as prevention is crucial due to the potential severity of the disease.