Eligible residents of Campaspe and Gannawarra shires, as well as Greater Bendigo, can access the vaccine through GPs, Aboriginal health services and community pharmacies.
Health Minister Mary-Anne Thomas encouraged Victorians to be wary of the dangers mosquito-borne diseases may carry.
“Mosquitoes can carry serious diseases that pose a real risk to our health,” she said.
“As we head into the warmer months, we would urge all Victorians to take simple precautions to protect themselves and their families.”
Most people with JEV infections do not have symptoms, or show mild symptoms, such as a fever, headache, nausea, vomiting and muscle aches.
A small number of people ― about one in 250 ― can develop a severe infection of the brain, known as encephalitis, or meningitis, both of which can be fatal.
To reduce the risk of being bitten, wear long, loose and light-coloured clothing outdoors, use mosquito repellents with Picaridin or DEET, and limit outdoor time during dawn and dusk.
Around the house, remove stagnant water, and make sure windows are fitted with mosquito netting or screens.
Those aged two months and older who regularly spend time outdoors, those who are experiencing homelessness or living in conditions with limited mosquito protection, or engage in natural disaster response are eligible for the vaccine.
For more information, visit betterhealth.vic.gov.au/campaigns/protect-yourself-mosquito-borne-disease
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