Director communities Jo Bradshaw said Victoria had a limited supply of free JE vaccines for regions considered high risk, such as Campaspe.
Residents aged two months and older may be eligible for the vaccination if they meet certain criteria, Ms Bradshaw said.
Those regularly spending time outdoors, experiencing homelessness, living in conditions with limited mosquito protection (such as tents or caravans), or engaging in outdoor flood recovery work are eligible.
Ms Bradshaw said the best way to prevent mosquito-borne diseases was to avoid their bites altogether.
“Cover up when you’re outdoors with long, loose, light-coloured clothing, use mosquito repellents with DEET or picaridin, and limit outdoor activities when mosquitoes are around,” she said.
Removing stagnant water around properties and ensuring accommodation has mosquito netting screens is also recommended, as well as using store-bought mosquito deterrents for outdoor gatherings.
Community immunisation sessions can be booked online via the council’s website, and through GPs or pharmacies.
“Just keep in mind that while the vaccine itself is free for eligible residents, there is a small administration fee at council sessions,” Ms Bradshaw said.
For more information on JE, visit health.vic.gov.au/infectious-diseases/japanese-encephalitis, or the Better Health Channel for tips on protecting yourself.
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