Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) Vaccination

Japanese encephalitis is a rare but serious disease spread by mosquitoes, and vaccination is the most effective way to prevent it. The JEV vaccine is safe and effective for people aged 2 months and older, and it is free for those at highest risk, including many people living or working across the Murrumbidgee region.

Once fully vaccinated, it takes 2 to 4 weeks for your body to build protection, so it’s important to get vaccinated as early as possible if you are eligible.

Who is eligible for a free JEV vaccine in NSW?

You may be eligible if you:

  • Live or work in an area of high JEV concern, including communities across the Murrumbidgee region

  • Live, work or visit piggeries (including family members), pork abattoirs, or pork rendering plants

  • Are involved in mosquito surveillance, control or management, or work with vertebrate surveillance systems

  • Work in a diagnostic or research laboratory with potential exposure to JEV or mosquitoes carrying the virus

Cristy Houghton