Free vaccinations are now available for Mitchell Shire residents to help protect themselves against a potentially deadly disease.
The Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) is a viral illness, spread by mosquitoes who become infected after biting pigs, horses, or waterbirds carrying the disease. Though most people infected with JEV remain asymptomatic, on rare occasions, JEV can develop into meningitis or encephalitis—which can be fatal if left untreated.
Prior to 2021, JEV was almost exclusively found in parts of Asia and the Torres Strait region, with only five cases of JEV having been recorded in mainland Australia.
However, recent years have seen a spread of the mosquito-borne disease, with 45 cases and seven deaths recorded between January 2021 and February 2023. As a result, in March 2022, Australia’s Acting Chief Medical Officer declared the JEV outbreak a Communicable Disease Incident of National Significance.
While protective measures can—and should be— taken to avoid being bitten, locals’ best defence against the disease is the Japanese Encephalitis Vaccine.
Thanks to government subsidies, the once $300 plus jab is now free for those living or working in high-risk locations such as the Alpine, Macedon Ranges, Mansfield, and Mitchell Shire local government areas. For Mitchell Shire residents, the jab is available via the Goulburn River Group Practice, Mitchell Shire Council, and Wallan Family Practice.
Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas was pleased to offer the vaccine at no cost to Victorians.
“Summer provides mosquitoes with an ideal breeding ground. As well as getting vaccinated against JEV, Victorians in high-risk areas should take simple actions, like wearing loose-fitting clothes and using mosquito repellent,” she said.
“Following expert advice from the chief health officer, we’re expanding this important program to ensure more Victorians can access the free JEV vaccine and protect themselves and their loved ones this summer.”
