FREE vaccination clinics for eligible people in the Balranald area to help protect them against the Japanese encephalitis virus in time for the summer mosquito season are being run by the Far West Local Health District.
It is important to vaccinate early against JE virus if eligible as it takes up to four weeks to develop a protective immune response.
You are eligible to receive a JE vaccination if you live and work in selected local government areas including Balranald, are aged 50 years or older, and spend four hours or more a day outdoors.
Eligibility also includes people who are engaged in the recovery efforts of stagnant waters following floods, or are living or sleeping in conditions that place them at an increased risk of exposure to mosquitoes.
The FWLHD free JE vaccination clinic will be held at Balranald MPS on Wednesday, November 2, from 1pm to 6pm. Vaccinations are by appointment only and can be made by calling 08 8080 1216.
As well as the free clinic next week, JE vaccine is also available through local GPs, and can be accessed by making an appointment with your local GP.
