With another wet summer and flooding expected across the Riverland in coming months, the risk of mosquito borne disease transmission is considered to be at its highest level in more than 10 years.
SA Health is reminding anyone eligible working or living in the Murray River, Lakes, and the Coorong communities to protect themselves against being bitten by mosquitoes and consider getting vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) in preparation for a rise in mosquito numbers.
Current and future predicted weather conditions will result in greater mosquito breeding, which in turn increases the risk of outbreaks of mosquito-borne disease such as JEV, Ross River virus (RRV) and Murray Valley encephalitis virus (MVEV).
Of particular concern is the current outbreak of JEV, which has seen nine human cases of JEV acquired in South Australia since December 2021, resulting in all cases being hospitalised and, sadly, two deaths.
SA Health has this month launched a new campaign urging eligible regional residents to get vaccinated against JEV, as well as raising awareness of the preventive measures all South Australians can take to reduce exposure to mosquito bites.
A digital mobile billboard truck will travel though major towns of the Riverland from Friday 11 November until Sunday 13 November promoting access to the JEV vaccination for those who are eligible.
The JEV vaccine is free for those aged two months and older, who have a primary residence or work in one of the eligible postcodes. Those who live in the region must spend at least four hours per day outdoors most days, while those working in the region must spend those four outdoor hours as part of their occupation.
Since the targeted JEV vaccination program commenced in October, more than 4000 vaccines have been delivered to participating GPs, Local Health Networks and pharmacies, with more than 2000 vaccines administered. A total of 23,000 vaccines have been made available by the Commonwealth and State Government.
SA Health and the Department of Primary Industries and Regions (PIRSA) are working closely together to also remind all landowners to ensure they have suitable mosquito management activities in place to further help reduce the risk of mosquito breeding and transmission of viruses.
This may include controlling mosquitoes on your property by reducing sites where they breed such as stagnant water, using chemicals responsibly, as well as taking preventative personal and household measures to reduce the risk of being bitten by mosquito.
While most people infected with JEV will not experience symptoms, a small proportion will develop encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), which can be fatal or cause long-term neurological damage.
Symptoms of JEV include confusion, headaches, tremors, drowsiness, neck stiffness and seizures. In addition to humans, the virus is also a particular concern for pigs and horses.
For more information see
- Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) vaccine information about the JEV vaccine and eligibility (SA Health)
- Japanese encephalitis for details about controlling mosquitoes and JEV symptoms in animals.