Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine Shortage Over (2026): Back in Stock in West London
September 10, 2026
6 minute read
Quick answer: the UK shortage of the Japanese encephalitis vaccine (Ixiaro) is over. On 14 September 2026, NaTHNaC removed Ixiaro from its national table of vaccine supply shortages, confirming that supply is back in stock. Ealing Travel Clinic in West London has the vaccine in stock and can start your course the same day where clinically suitable, including the licensed accelerated 7-day schedule for adults.
Supply status, 13 October 2026: Ixiaro is back in stock nationally (NaTHNaC vaccine supply table, updated 14 September 2026). If you put off vaccination during the shortage, or your course was interrupted, you can now book in the normal way.
Is the Japanese encephalitis vaccine shortage over?
Yes. Ixiaro is the only Japanese encephalitis vaccine licensed in the UK, so when its supply was disrupted earlier in 2026 there was no alternative brand to fall back on, and NaTHNaC listed it as out of stock nationally. On 14 September 2026, NaTHNaC removed Ixiaro from its table of vaccine supply shortages, noting that supply is back in stock.
During the shortage, some travellers could not find the vaccine and others started a course but could not get their second dose in time. That pressure has now eased. If you are planning a trip to an at-risk area, you can book in the usual way and choose the schedule that fits your travel dates.
Started a course during the shortage and could not finish it?
Contact us. Bring or send any record of your first dose, and we will advise on the best way to complete your protection after a clinical assessment. You can book online or call us on 0208 567 0982.
Standard vs accelerated schedule
The Japanese encephalitis vaccine is given as two doses. The standard schedule spaces them 28 days apart. For adults aged 18 to 65 there is also a licensed accelerated schedule, with the two doses just seven days apart, and studies show it gives similar protection to the standard course. This is especially useful when your trip is coming up soon.
| Schedule | Doses and timing | Who it is for | Finish before travel |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard | 2 doses, 28 days apart | From 2 months of age | At least 7 days before |
| Accelerated | 2 doses, 7 days apart | Adults 18 to 65 | At least 7 days before |
If you need ongoing protection, a booster is recommended within 12 to 24 months. We will confirm the right schedule for you at your appointment.
Do you need the Japanese encephalitis vaccine?
Japanese encephalitis is a mosquito-borne infection found in rural and agricultural parts of Asia and the western Pacific, particularly where there are rice paddies and pig farming. It is rare in travellers, but it is serious when it does occur and there is no specific treatment. It is usually recommended for people spending longer periods, or the transmission season, in rural at-risk areas, or doing a lot of outdoor activity.
Whether you need it depends on exactly where you are going, for how long and at what time of year. Our full guide explains this in detail: who needs the Japanese encephalitis vaccine. If your trip is to China or Vietnam, we cover those destinations specifically too.
How much does the Japanese encephalitis vaccine cost?
At Ealing Travel Clinic the Japanese encephalitis vaccine is £110 per dose, or £220 for the full two-dose course, which includes your travel health consultation and vaccination record. The accelerated schedule is the same price.
What to expect at your appointment
- A consultation with a travel health specialist, usually around 20 minutes.
- A review of your itinerary and individual risk.
- A check of your medical history and any contraindications.
- Your first dose the same day, where clinically suitable.
- A plan for your second dose (standard 28-day or accelerated 7-day).
- Your vaccination record.
Mild side effects such as a sore arm, headache or tiredness are common for a day or two.
Frequently asked questions
Book your Japanese encephalitis vaccine
If you are travelling to an at-risk area, book an assessment with us. Our travel health specialist will confirm whether the Japanese encephalitis vaccine is right for your trip, which schedule fits your dates, and start your course where suitable.
Ealing Travel Clinic, 30 Northfield Avenue, London W13 9RL. Call 0208 567 0982.
Useful links
Last reviewed 13 October 2026 against NaTHNaC/TravelHealthPro (vaccine supply table, updated 14 September 2026) and the Ixiaro Summary of Product Characteristics. This page is general information and not a substitute for individual medical advice; suitability is confirmed at your appointment.
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