GANNAWARRA residents at-risk of contracting the mosquito-borne virus Japanese encephalitis have been urged to get vaccinated.
Free vaccinations are available to eligible residents via Gannawarra Council’s immunisation program.
Council chief executive Geoff Rollinson said summer was the ideal breeding time for mosquitoes.
“Gannawarra’s natural environment with its many rivers, lakes, floodplains, combined with native birds and animals, increases the risk of mosquito-borne disease such as JE,” he said. “A vaccine is available to help protect community members most at risk of being infected.”
A free JE vaccination is available for people aged two months or older living in the municipality who live or work at properties with pigs; work in mosquito surveillance or control; are going to high-risk areas for seasonal work; regularly spend time engaging in outdoor activities that place them as risk of mosquito bites; experiencing homelessness; or living in conditions with limited mosquito protection (tents, caravans, dwellings with no insect screens).
The Department of Health issued a health alert on January 21 after a confirmed human case of JE was identified in a resident in northern Victoria, the first case of JE in Victoria this mosquito season.
JE virus has also been detected through environmental surveillance in northern Victoria along the Murray River, and in mosquitoes and feral pigs in New South Wales this summer.
These findings indicate that JE virus is likely circulating in northern Victoria this summer.
JE virus can cause a rare but potentially serious infection of the brain and is spread to humans through bites from infected mosquitoes.
Residents who would like to be vaccinated can make an appointment with their local immunisation provider of choice.
This includes through the council’s immunisation program.
Times and locations of the council-run immunisation sessions will be promoted at www.gsc.vic.gov.au/immunisation. Bookings are essential by calling 5450 9333.
Residents are encouraged to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes by limiting outdoor activity when mosquitoes are most active at dawn and dusk, wearing long, loose fitting clothes, and applying a mosquito repellent to exposed skin when outdoors.
