There’s now fewer barriers for those wanting the Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) vaccine, with SA Health today announcing a broadening of the eligibility criteria.
You are now eligible if you spend regular time outdoors, are experiencing homelessness, helping with the river clean-up or have limited mosquito protection at your property.
Nine South Australians were detected with the mosquito-borne disease last year, with two deaths among all cases being hospitalised; however there have been no cases reported this year to date.
Chief Public Health Officer Professor Nicola Spurrier says its an important and lasting decision to make.
“The JEV vaccination produces lasting protection in most people, so it’s important for eligible people to take up the vaccine now whilst available in order to protect themselves against the virus in the warmer months when mosquito activity increases,” Ms Spurrier says.
“I strongly encourage eligible people in the River Murray, Coorong and surrounding areas to get vaccinated against JEV if they have not already done so.”
Over 23,000 vaccinations have so far been administered in South Australia.
For more information about the JEV vaccine and eligibility visit the SA Health website.
Photo by Pixabay, supplied
