Symptoms of Japanese encephalitis usually appear 5-15 days after the bite from an infected mosquito. If you experience any of these symptoms, don’t assume it is because of Japanese encephalitis. These symptoms may be caused by other, less serious health conditions. If you experience any one of them, see your physician.
- Agitation
- Brain damage
- Chills
- Coma
- Confusion
- Convulsions (especially in infants)
- Fever
- Headache
- Nausea
- Neck stiffness
- Paralysis
- Tiredness
- Tremors
- Vomiting
Your doctor will ask about your symptoms and medical history, and perform a physical exam. Tests may include the following:
- Blood tests to look for antibodies
- CT scan
—a type of x-ray that uses a computer to make pictures of structures inside the body
- MRI scan
—a test that uses magnetic waves to make pictures of structures inside the body
- Cerebrospinal fluid tests