MOSQUITO season is upon us, and the state Government is delivering free vaccines for the Japanese encephalitis virus to at-risk regional Victorians this mosquito season.
Minister for Health Mary-Anne Thomas today encouraged Victorians to understand the risks of mosquito-borne diseases and to take simple steps to protect themselves from mosquito bites while enjoying more time outside over the warmer summer months.
Backed by a $2.3M investment, the vaccine is now available to people in 24 regional local government areas, primarily inland riverine regions, including Greater Shepparton, where there is a higher risk of exposure to the virus.
Simple and practical steps that Victorians can undertake to reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquitoes, include:
Wearing long, loose and light-coloured clothing when outdoors.
Using mosquito repellents that contain active ingredients including Picaridin or DEET.
Spraying or rubbing repellent on children’s clothes is recommended, avoiding their skin .
Limiting time spent outdoors when mosquitoes are most active such as at dawn and dusk .
Removing stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed around the home or a campsite.
Making sure windows are fitted with mosquito netting or screens.
More information is available at betterhealth.vic.gov.au/campaigns/protect-yourself-mosquito-borne-disease.
