NSW expands eligibility for free Japanese encephalitis vaccine

24 Mar

NSW Health has expanded the eligibility criteria for the free Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus vaccine in response to ongoing detections and cases across the state.

Japanese encephalitis virus is now considered endemic in parts of NSW, particularly west of the Great Dividing Range and in north‑east NSW. There have been local human cases this mosquito season, along with continued detections in animals, highlighting the ongoing risk.

Expanded eligibility criteria

People aged 2 months and older are now recommended to receive a free JE vaccine if they meet either of the following criteria:

Live or work (including volunteer work) in one of the 68 designated high‑risk local government areas (LGAs) in NSW
Until 1 June 2026, are travelling to these high‑risk LGAs for outdoor recreational activities, such as camping, caravanning, boating, hunting or fishing

Eligibility has been expanded to include an additional eight LGAs:

Armidale
Ballina
Bathurst
Byron
Oberon
Tweed
Walcha
Yass Valley

This brings the total number of high‑risk LGAs in NSW to 68.

NSW Health is advising vaccination providers to have a low threshold for recommending vaccination, particularly for people planning outdoor activities. Evidence from recent mosquito seasons indicates that most locally acquired JE cases had undertaken outdoor recreational activities.

Vaccine availability

Imojev® vaccine stock is currently available through the State Vaccine Centre
JEspect® is reserved for people who cannot receive Imojev and can be ordered through the local Public Health Unit via 1300 066 055

Eligibility criteria may be reviewed depending on vaccine supply and risk assessment. People who are currently eligible are advised to receive the vaccine as soon as possible.