A mosquito surveillance program in North Burnett, Queensland, has confirmed the presence of the Japanese encephalitis virus in Monto. Vaccination sessions are scheduled to begin on February 19, 2025, at the Monto Family Practice.
Read the article to know how the Wide Bay Public Health Unit urges residents to take preventive measures against mosquito bites.
https://burnetttoday.com.au/south/2025/02/13/japanese-encephalitis-back-in-monto/
Vocabulary Questions:
- What does the word “trigger” mean? “Queensland Health explained that mosquitos carrying the virus were found in a trap at Monto, triggering the alert.” Use it in a sentence.
- What does “grapple” mean? “The North Burnett region had already grappled with Japanese encephalitis back in 2022, when Wide Bay Health mosquito detection programs found traces of the virus near Mundubbera, Monto and Mulgildie.” Use it in a sentence.
- What does “eligible” mean? “I encourage eligible Queenslanders in identified at-risk locations to be vaccinated against the virus.” Use it in a sentence.
Discussion Questions:
- Have you ever taken extra precautions against mosquito-borne diseases, like using repellents or wearing protective clothing?
- How do you feel about the government’s response to mosquito-borne viruses? Do you think more should be done?
- Would you consider getting vaccinated against Japanese encephalitis if it were available in your area?
- Have you ever experienced or heard of similar outbreaks in your country? How were they handled?