In the Murray River region mosquitoes can carry viruses such as Japanese encephalitis (JE), Murray Valley encephalitis (MVE), Ross River, and Barmah Forest virus which are spread to humans through mosquito bites
With several mosquito borne diseases prevalent in the local area, children can help their families ‘Beat the Bite’ with a NSW statewide distribution of books that help teach the importance of mosquito bite prevention.
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In NSW mosquitoes can carry viruses such as Japanese encephalitis (JE), Murray Valley encephalitis (MVE), Ross River, and Barmah Forest virus which are spread to humans through mosquito bites.
These viruses may cause symptoms ranging from tiredness, rash, headache, and sore and swollen joints to rare but severe symptoms of seizures and loss of consciousness.
‘Jack & Angie - Beat the Bite’ is an entertaining story about two youngsters who love playing in and exploring the great outdoors while staying safe from mosquito bites.
The NSW Government is releasing a statewide distribution of books called ‘beat the bite’ to teach the importance of mosquito bite prevention.
More than 77,000 books have been printed and are being delivered to schools, early childhood and education centres and local councils across NSW, with 430 public and independent schools, 103 early childhood and education centres, 66 councils already having opted in to receive books.
NSW Minister for Health, Ryan Park said this is a fun and informative way of helping youngsters understand the risk mosquitoes pose and ways to protect themselves and their families.
“The best way to avoid infection by mosquito borne diseases is to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes, and this creative children’s book explains to children and their families four simple steps to take to stay bite free; spray up, cover up, screen up and clean up,” Mr Park said.
Victoria’s free JEV vaccine program
More Victorians will have protection from the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) this mosquito season with the expansion of the eligibility of Victoria’s free vaccine program to additional areas across the state.
It follows advice from Victoria’s Chief Health Officer and means the vaccine is now available to people in 24 regional local government areas including Moira Shire and Indigo Shire, primarily inland riverine regions, where there is a higher risk of exposure to the virus.
In NSW a vaccine is available for free to those at greatest risk of exposure.
Protective measures to avoid bites, include:
•Wear light, loose-fitting long-sleeved shirts, long pants and covered footwear and socks
•Avoid being outdoors at dawn and dusk
•Apply repellent to all areas of exposed skin, especially those that contain DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus which are the most effective against mosquitoes
•Reapply repellent regularly, particularly after swimming. Always apply sunscreen first and then apply repellent
•Use insecticide sprays, vapour dispensing units and mosquito coils to repel mosquitos. Mosquito coils should only be used outside.
A vaccine is available to protect against Japanese encephalitis virus, which is available for free to those at greatest risk of exposure.
Want more information?
For more information on vaccine eligibility for NSW visit;
Services interested in receiving ‘Jack & Angie - Beat the Bite’ can contact the Surveillance and Risk Unit, Environmental Health Branch at HSSG-EHBSurveillance@health.nsw.gov.au.
