NSW Extends Free Japanese Encephalitis Vaccination for Travellers Visiting High-Risk Areas

Eligible travellers visiting high-risk regions of New South Wales for outdoor recreational activities can continue to access free Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) vaccination until 31 July 2026.

NSW Health has announced an extension of its free JEV vaccination program for people aged two months and older who are travelling to designated high-risk areas for activities such as camping, caravanning, boating and fishing. The extension applies to nearly 70 Local Government Areas (LGAs) across the state.

The announcement comes as NSW Health continues to monitor JEV activity and encourages eligible individuals to be vaccinated before travelling. While the risk of JEV transmission is currently lower during the cooler months, vaccination remains an important preventive measure for those at risk.

People who live or work in high-risk areas, as well as those employed in occupations with an increased risk of JEV exposure, will remain eligible for free vaccination beyond 31 July 2026.

NSW Health has also advised that supplies of the JEspect (Ixiaro) vaccine are currently limited due to global supply constraints. The Imojev vaccine remains available and is recommended as the preferred vaccine where appropriate. JEspect should be reserved for people who cannot receive live vaccines, including those who are immunocompromised, pregnant, or infants aged between two and nine months.

Regardless of vaccination status, NSW Health reminds travellers to continue using mosquito bite prevention measures, including applying insect repellent, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and reducing outdoor exposure during peak mosquito activity times.

For full eligibility criteria and a list of high-risk LGAs, visit the NSW Health Japanese Encephalitis vaccination webpage.