Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a potentially fatal neurological illness spread by mosquitoes.
Several people have died from JE, including two men early last year after contracting the illness while on holidays in the Murrumbidgee area.
Director of Public Health for the Murrumbidgee and Southern NSW Local Health Districts, Alison Nikitas said anyone living or working in high-risk areas for JE should take steps to protect themselves.
“There is no specific treatment for JE so it is very important for people who live in or travel to these areas to be aware of the elevated risk,” she said.
“Importantly, there is a safe, effective vaccine to protect against JE virus which is free to anyone who lives or routinely works in various inland regions as well as for people who work in some other high-risk occupations.”
The vaccine is available free for people aged two months or older who live, work or volunteer in Federation Shire and are at risk of mosquito bites.
No human cases have been detected in Victoria in the 2025–26 season, however Moira Shire is one of 12 Victorian council areas considered high risk for mosquito born illnesses.
Moira Shire Council offers JE vaccination free to eligible residents who live or work at properties with pigs, work in mosquito surveillance or control or who go to high-risk areas for seasonal work.
Prevent mosquito bites
• Applying repellent regularly that contains DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus
• Wear light coloured, loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts, long pants, socks and covered footwear
• Staying inside during peak mosquito times at dawn and dusk.
• Cover windows and doors with insect screens
• Remove any items that can collect water from around your home
• While camping, sleep under a mosquito net
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