VaxBus delivers JEV vaccinations across Darling Downs

Earlier this month, the Autumn VaxBus once again hit the road, this time delivering Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) vaccines across the Darling Downs region.

The bus delivered JEV vaccines for adults, and children two months or older, as a response by the Darling Downs and West Moreton PHN and the Darling Downs and West Moreton Public Health Units to an increased incidence of local detection of the disease in mosquitos in the region.

Over the four-day period, 157 vaccinations were delivered by the Oceana Immunisation team, with stops in Gatton, Laidley, Pittsworth, Nanango, Wondai, Murgon, and Cherbourg.

JEV is spread through bites from mosquitos, which become infected through biting infected pigs and waterbirds.

JEV is endemic to parts of Asia and the Torres Strait region of Australia. JEV has now also been detected in humans, animals and mosquitos in mainland Australia (DoHAC).

Queensland Health’s personal protection measures can reduce the risk of you and your family getting bitten by mosquitoes. These include:

• Avoiding mosquitoes when they are most active, particularly at dusk and dawn.
• Covering up with light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing with long sleeves, long trousers, socks, and covered footwear when outside.
  
• Using an effective insect repellent on exposed skin and reapplying within a few hours, following the manufacturer's instructions.
  

For further information on vaccination centres and at risk groups, visit Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) vaccination centres.