Mosquitoes in NSW can carry a range of viruses, including Japanese Encephalitis (JE) virus.
In NSW this year, five people acquired JE and, sadly, two of these people died.
Three of these cases were acquired in the Murrumbidgee region.
There is no specific treatment for JE and the virus can cause severe neurological illness with headache, convulsions, reduced consciousness and death.
In NSW, the JE vaccine is available for free to people aged two months or older who live or work in any of the defined high-risk local government areas - including Edward River and Murray River - and are at risk of mosquito bites.
People undertaking volunteer deployments in these LGAs are also eligible.
Murrumbidgee Local Health District director public health Alison Nikitas said it was important for people enjoying the great outdoors this school holiday period to protect themselves from mosquitoes.
“Lots of us will be spending time outside, so it is really important people take steps to protect themselves from mosquitoes and the diseases they carry such as JE,” Ms Nikitas said.
“Simple things like avoiding going outside at peak mosquito times like dawn and dusk, applying repellent and wearing long-sleeve, loose fitting, and light-coloured clothing will go a long way in keeping you safe and well.
“Vaccination is another way to protect yourself from JE specifically, but it should not be the only measure people rely on to avoid being bitten because it does not protect you from other unpleasant mosquito-borne illnesses.”
The JE vaccine is available through local general practitioners, Aboriginal health services and pharmacists.
People should make an appointment and let the provider know it is for the JE vaccine, as they may require a few days' notice to order it.
Once vaccinated, protection can take up to two weeks to develop.
The vaccine does not protect from all the viruses that mosquitoes carry. Here are some simple actions you can take to reduce the chance of being bitten by mosquitoes:
• Apply repellent to exposed skin. Use repellents that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus. Check the label for reapplication times.
• Re-apply repellent regularly, particularly after swimming. Always apply SPF 50+ sunscreen first before applying repellent.
• Use repellents that are safe for children. Most skin repellents are safe for use on children aged three months and older. Always check the label for instructions.
• Wear light, loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts, long pants and covered footwear and socks.
• Avoid going outdoors during peak mosquito times, especially dawn and dusk.
• Use insecticide sprays, vapour dispensing units and mosquito coils to repel mosquitoes (mosquito coils should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas).
• Cover windows and doors with insect screens and checking there are no gaps.
• Remove items that may collect water such as old tyres and empty pots from around your home to reduce the places where mosquitoes can breed.
• Protect infants aged less than three months by using an infant carrier draped with mosquito netting, secured along the edges.
• While camping, use a tent that has fly screens to prevent mosquitoes entering or sleep under a mosquito net.
For further information on Japanese Encephalitis virus and ways to protect yourself against mosquitoes visit www.health.nsw.gov.au/mosquitoes.
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