Medcirc Young

25/01/2026

14/01/2026

If you have any concerns please make an appointment with your GP.
We have the vaccines available.

Communities across southern parts of NSW are being urged to protect themselves against mosquito bites following a probable case of Japanese encephalitis (JE), as well as detection of the virus in sentinel chickens.

JE is a rare but serious illness spread by infected mosquitoes which in some cases can cause severe neurological illness with headache, confusion, convulsions and reduced consciousness. A probable case of JE is being investigated in a man in his 60s, who was likely exposed to JE virus in the Riverina region in late December of last year.

NSW Health can also advise of a recent detection of JE virus in the Upper Lachlan Shire near Goulburn through a sentinel chicken blood sample in early January 2026, which indicates that JE virus is likely circulating in the area. NSW Health uses routine sentinel chicken surveillance to provide early warnings about the presence of mosquito-borne viruses.

Director Public Health for Murrumbidgee and Southern NSW Local Health Districts Alison Nikitas said given the widespread area of these detections, anyone living or working in areas at high-risk for JE should take steps to protect themselves by avoiding mosquito bites and getting vaccinated.

“There is no specific treatment for JE so it is very important for people who live in or travel to these areas to be aware of the elevated risk,” Ms Nikitas said. “Importantly, there is a safe, effective vaccine to protect against JE virus which is free to anyone who lives or routinely works in various inland regions as well as for people who work in some other high-risk occupations.”

People who meet the eligibility criteria for vaccination should make an appointment with their GP, Aboriginal Medical Service or pharmacy and let the provider know it is for the JE vaccine. These providers may require a few days’ notice so they can place an order for the vaccine.

A booster dose may be recommended for some people. People who have been vaccinated more than a year ago should discuss whether they need a booster with a healthcare provider.

Information on eligibility for a free JE vaccine is available here: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/jev/Pages/vaccination.aspx

JE virus cannot be transmitted directly between humans or from any other animal.

For further information on JE virus and ways to protect yourself from mosquitoes, visit https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/mosquitoes

14/01/2026

What’s more annoying than a mozzie bite?

Getting bitten because you didn’t apply your repellent correctly!

Take time to apply repellent correctly. It’ll stop you from getting itchy mozzie bites that can sometimes make you really sick. Here’s how to apply:

• use repellent that contains DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
• apply repellent evenly to all areas of exposed skin – in a similar way to how you apply sunscreen, don’t forget your face!
• apply repellent AFTER you apply sunscreen
• reapply repellent regularly. This is important if you are outside during hot weather, or swimming
• apply repellent to young children – don't let them apply their own
• always read and follow the instructions on the label.

Learn more: health.nsw.gov.au/mosquitoes

11/01/2026

Monday 12/1/26 @ 8.30am.

07/01/2026

Feeling the heat? Don’t let dehydration sneak up on you 🥵💧

As the weather warms up, your body loses water faster through sweat. You might lose more water than you put in especially when your body’s working harder to stay cool in the heat.

If you have any signs of dehydration, move to a cool place, remove unnecessary layers and take small sips of cool water.

Young children and older adults have a higher chance of becoming dehydrated. If symptoms persist or get worse, use the healthdirect Symptom Checker to find the care that’s right for you.

07/01/2026

Nothing beats outdoor summer fun, but as temperatures climb so does your risk of heat-related illness! 🥵☀️

Heat exhaustion can quickly turn into heatstroke if not treated and it can be life-threatening.

Those most at risk are children, people with a chronic illness, pregnant women and the elderly ⚠️

If you or someone else shows signs of heat exhaustion, move to a cool place, remove tight clothing, have a cool shower or use cold packs on your skin, and drink water.

⚠️If someone starts showing signs of heatstroke call triple zero (000) immediately

07/01/2026

Please stay hydrated during the heat

A severe heatwave is affecting large parts of Australia, with very high temperatures that can put your health at risk ☀️🥵
Stay cool and stay safe with these tips:

Drink lots of water and check your urine to see if you’re hydrated. If it’s pale yellow you’re hydrated, if its dark you need to drink more.

Keep your home cool. Close blinds or curtains during the day to block out the sun.

Use a spray bottle with water, place a bowl of ice in front of a fan, or soak your feet in a bowl of cool water.

Take the kids somewhere public like a shopping centre, the movies, the library or an indoor pool.

If you’re going outside, protect yourself! Slip on protective clothing, Slop on sunscreen, Slap on a hat and slide on sunglasses.

Check on others. Heatwaves can be dangerous, particularly for elderly family members, babies and young children, pregnant people, and those with pre-existing medical conditions.

If you’re concerned for your health during this time, use the healthdirect symptom checker to know what care you need or call triple zero (000) if it’s an emergency.

25/12/2025

Regular GP closed over the holidays?

Call healthdirect on 1800 022 222 for free instant advice from a registered nurse and get connected with the care that's right for you.

The nurse can find you an alternative GP, pharmacist or urgent care service, or connect you to a doctor online

To find out more, visit
www.health.nsw.gov.au/callhealthdirect

24/12/2025

The MedCirc Team would like to wish you a safe and happy Christmas and summer holiday period.

19/12/2025

The Medcirc team would like to thank the Community for supporting us in 2025.
We hope you all have a safe and happy Christmas, New Year and Summer break.

18/12/2025

Hot weather can be hard for seniors.

As temperatures rise, don't forget to check in on older friends, family and neighbours. A simple call or a visit can make a huge difference in helping keep them safe this summer.

Some easy tips you can share are:

➡ Drink plenty of water (check with a doctor if they have been told to drink less fluid)

➡ Stay indoors during peak heat times, use air conditioning/fans and keep blinds/curtains closed

➡ Use cool packs, a spray bottle or a damp cloth to cool down

➡ Ask their doctor how heat might affect their health and the medicines they take

➡ Keep their phone charged and nearby in case help is needed

Your small actions can help keep seniors safe, connected and comfortable this summer.

Find more tips: health.nsw.gov.au/beattheheat

18/12/2025

Need instant health advice for your family? Call healthdirect on 1800 022 222, anytime, anywhere to speak to a registered nurse.

Depending on your condition, the nurse will recommend the right healthcare option for you.

They can find you a nearby GP, pharmacist or urgent care service, connect you to a doctor online or call you an ambulance if it is life-threatening.

To find out more, visit www.health.nsw.gov.au/callhealthdirect