Japanese encephalitis (JE)

Japanese Encephalitis (JE) is a rare but potentially serious infection of the brain caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus. It can be spread to humans through mosquito bites. 

JE virus was detected in Victoria for the first time in February 2022. JE virus was initially detected in pigs, and locally acquired human cases of JE, and virus detections in mosquitoes were subsequentlyidentified. 

A comprehensive response across human and animal health sectors has been implemented following the first detections of the virus in Victoria and is ongoing. 

The JE vaccine is available for specific groups at higher risk of exposure to the virus. 

Live or work (including seasonal workers) in the high-risk local government areas (LGAs) and regularly spend time in the outdoors, you are likely eligible for the JE vaccine.  

In the Loddon Mallee, this includes: 

Immunisation providers should: 

• familiarise yourself with vaccination eligibility criteria and the updated JE vaccine booster dose recommendations 

• promote and offer JE vaccination to eligible people 

• recall and offer JEspect to eligible people who are due for the second dose 

• recall and offer JE booster dose to eligible people who are due for a booster 

• report JE vaccination encounters to the Australian Immunisation Register (AIR) – this is a mandatory requirement. 

JE vaccine booster dose recommendations

JE vaccine booster doses are recommended for people 1-2 years after completion of their primary course who remain eligible in Victoria, and their primary course was with:    

• Imojev®, and the individual was <18 years at time of primary dose, OR  
• JEspect®, and the individual was ≥18 years at time of primary dose. 

Imojev® is contraindicated in people who are immunocompromised, and in pregnant and breastfeeding women. Refer to the Australian Immunisation Handbook for further details.

JE booster doses are funded as part of the Victorian JE vaccination program for eligible people. 

How do I order the JE vaccine?​  

• Both Imojev® and JEspect® can be ordered online via Onelink Online portal as part of your monthly order​. 

• Vaccine order limits are in place. Providers requiring additional stock that exceeds the current ordering limit should contact the Immunisation Program [email protected] before submitting an order on Onelink.​  

Links

JE consent form - JE vaccination consent form  

JE vaccine information for immunisation providers-  JE vaccine immunisation providers  

JE vaccine eligibility checklist for the public - JE vaccine checklist 

More information: