The Australasian College of Pharmacy (the College) invites pharmacists to an insightful webinar on Tuesday 5 April about the mosquito-borne disease, Japanese encephalitis (JE). The spread of the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) along the east and south coast of Australia during February and March has been unusual, as the virus is endemic to parts of Asia and the Torres Strait.
The College’s President, Michelle Bou-Samra, said that the exact origin of spread of JEV to the southeast of Australia is not known with certainty, however, experts believe the virus may have entered Australia after recent flooding across the east coast, which created additional wetlands.
“Many in the community may be concerned about JEV, as 34 cases of JEV have been reported in Australia in March and three people sadly lost their lives.”
“Pharmacists, particularly in Victoria, New South Wales, South Australia and Queensland may continue to see concerned patients presenting at their pharmacy with questions.”
“Interestingly, less than 1% of patients infected with JEV will experience symptoms, though some patients are ill with a fever and headaches.”
“The University of Queensland’s Centre for Clinical Research is currently running a JEV vaccination trial, which could see the current vaccine cost of $300 reduced and this vital drug made accessible to those deemed high-risk, including farm and pork abattoir workers, veterinarians, and mosquito virus researchers.
I invite the pharmacy industry to attend the College’s Japanese Encephalitis next Tuesday 5 April to hear from Associate Professor Philip Britton, a RACP Cottrell Research Establishment Fellow and Associate Professor, Child and Adolescent Health at Sydney Medical School, University of Sydney.
“Associate Professor Britton will bring pharmacists up-to-date on JEV symptoms, patient risk, and vaccinations.”
“Though JEV can’t be transmitted person-to-person, Associate Professor Britton will discuss how you can speak to your patients about the virus.”
“At APP2022 the College announced its strategic partnership with Guild Learning and Development,” said Ms. Bou-Samra, “Together we’ll deliver one education provider for the entire industry, supporting pharmacists on their career journey through a modernised and diverse education and training offering.”
“The Japanese encephalitis webinar is one of the College’s wider continuum of education offerings for members.”
“College members already enjoy monthly clinical and business webinars, plus many more benefits,”
“I invite Guild members and the wider pharmacy industry to join the webinar and see what the College has to offer,” said Ms. Bou-Samra, “Please use the complimentary code ACPCOMP when registering as a non-member at acp.edu.au.”
The Japanese encephalitis webinar is being held at 7pm AEST on Tuesday 5 April. Visit acp.edu.au to register.