Protect yourself from Japanese Encephalitis
Published on 11 February 2025
Residents are encouraged to protect themselves from contracting Japanese Encephalitis, with vaccinations available free of charge to eligible residents via Gannawarra Shire Council’s immunisation program.
“Summer is an ideal breeding time for mosquitoes,” Council Chief Executive Officer, Geoff Rollinson said.
“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 Japanese Encephalitis, with a vaccine is available to help protect community members most at risk of being infected.”
As part of efforts to protect residents from contracting the infection, a free Japanese Encephalitis 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 (e.g. tents, caravans, dwellings with no insect screens).
Residents who would like to be vaccinated can do so by making an appointment with their local immunisation provider of choice. This includes through Council’s immunisation program. Details regarding times and locations of Council-run immunisation sessions will be promoted via its Facebook page and at www.gsc.vic.gov.au/immunisation. Bookings are essential, which can be done by phoning (03) 5450 9333.
“If you have any questions regarding the Japanese Encephalitis virus vaccine, please talk to your GP or call Council’s immunisation team to discuss your individual requirements,” Mr Rollinson said.
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.
For further information, visit www.betterhealth.vic.gov.au/campaigns/beat-bite