Japanese Encephalitis

What is Japanese Encephalitis (JE)?

Japanese Encephalitis (JE) is spread through bites from mosquitos, which become infected through biting infected pigs and waterbirds.

Whilst most people who contract the disease are asymptomatic, others may experience fever, headache and disorientation, a severe infection may result in inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), seizures and coma. 

The Japanese Encephalitis virus was detected in Victoria for the first time in February 2022. JE virus was initially detected in pigs, and locally acquired human cases of JE, and virus detections in mosquitoes were subsequently identified across Victoria, including the Greater Bendigo region.

We offer the government funded vaccine for eligible people who have increased exposure to mosquitoes, particularly those in regional areas and who work with or are in contact with pigs. Immunisation is available without a script with only a pharmacist service fee applicable.

For those not eligible for the government funded immunisation, activities such as camping, working or spending time outdoors in mosquito prone areas may increase your risk of contracting JE and therefore private vaccination should be considered.