Expanded vaccine rollout for deadly mosquito virus
The state government is expanding the rollout of vaccines for the potentially deadly Japanese Encephalitis Virus ahead of mosquito season, following two deaths and nine confirmed cases this year.
Health Minister Chris Picton announced this morning that 23,000 JEV vaccines will be made available for people who live or work in a postcode within five kilometres of the Murray River, Lake Alexandrina or Lake Albert.
Eligibility is restricted to people who spend more than four hours outdoors on “most days”.
According to the state government, more than 900 people were vaccinated against JEV in the first stage vaccine rollout earlier this year.
A total of $1.84m has been committed to the next stage of the vaccine program along with an expanded arbovirus and sentinel chicken surveillance program.
“We are heading into an increased mosquito season this year and we want South Australians living in high-risk areas to be protected,” Picton said in a statement.
“I encourage eligible residents and workers, especially those around the Murray River, to take advantage of a free vaccine to help keep themselves safe.
“This virus can be deadly, and we can all play a part in helping stop its spread.”
It comes after nine confirmed JEV cases and two deaths were reported in South Australia this year.
JEV is a potentially fatal mosquito-borne disease that can also cause long-term neurological damage. Symptoms may include confusion, headaches, neck stiffness, tremors, drowsiness and seizures.
The “majority” of the state’s JEV cases had visited the Murray River during their exposure period, according to the state government, with most of the cases detected by March this year before the onset of colder weather.
Deputy chief public health officer Dr Chris Lease said people should take their own precautions to protect themselves.
“It is still important people remain vigilant in protecting themselves against mosquito bites – including using repellent on exposed skin, wearing loose fitting clothing outdoors, and ensuring that accommodation is fitted with mosquito nettings or screens,” Lease said in a statement.
JEV was first detected in a South Australian piggery earlier this year. Lease has previously said the virus likely travelled from the flood-affected eastern states.
