VIC DH: Japanese encephalitis virus detected in Victoria
Several cases of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV), a rare but potentially serious infection have been detected in pigs in the state of Victoria, New South Wales and Queensland. At this stage, no cases have been reported in humans, but there may be a risk of transmission in regions near the border of Victoria and New South Wales.
More than 90 per cent of JEV infections are asymptomatic, transmitted to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito. The incubation period is usually between 6 to 16 days and illness usually begins with sudden onset of fever, headache and vomiting.
Public health officials have advised clinicians to consider and test for JEV and other arboviruses in patients with unexplained encephalitis, after other common causes such as Herpes Simplex Virus (HSV), Varicella Zoster Virus (VZV) and enteroviruses have been excluded.
Furthermore, it is recommended individuals limit their exposure to mosquitoes and monitor for symptoms if they have travelled around the impacted areas.
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VIC DH: Japanese encephalitis virus detected in Victoria
The Conversation: The Moderna vaccine is now available for 6 to 11 year olds. Here’s what parents need to know
The Moderna COVID-19 vaccine is now approved for use in children aged 6 to 11 years. With just under half of Australian primary-school-age children having received their first COVID vaccine dose, the approval of Moderna’s COVID vaccine provides parents with an additional opportunity to protect their children against severe disease.
Following the KidCOVE clinical trial, this article explores the ongoing safety and efficacy as well as the considerations and administrative recommendations for the use of Moderna’s COVID-19 vaccine in the 6 to 11 years cohort.
To read the full article, follow the link below.