Please note that this site is unsupported on Internet Explorer, and may not function as intended.

We recommend upgrading to the latest version of Microsoft Edge, Google Chrome or Firefox.

Barwon South West Public Health Unit
Helping Barwon South West communities live healthier lives.

Health alerts and news

Find out more

COVID-19

Learn more

Infectious diseases

Information and support

Supporting our community

Find out more

Healthy people. Thriving communities.

Find out more

Latest News

View all
News image Blueberry-banner

Friday April 11, 2025

Increased risk of measles in greater Melbourne area – have you had your two MMR vaccines?

There is an increased risk of measles in the greater Melbourne area. It can be prevented with 2 MMR vaccines given 1 month or more apart. Protect yourself with the MMR vaccine.

Read More
News image Blueberry-banner

Thursday April 10, 2025

Start a Conversation – to help stop vaping

Despite reduced smoking rates over decades, in just three years the prevalence of e-cigarette use increased significantly in Victoria, particularly among young people. While the majority of young people do not ...

Read More
News image Blueberry-banner

Wednesday April 9, 2025

Recent study shows Buruli ulcer surveillance is key in detecting at risk suburbs

A recent study conducted by the Barwon South West Public Health Unit and CSIRO, Australia’s national science agency, has shown evidence that Buruli ulcer in possums is present in areas up to three years prior...

Read More
News image Blueberry-banner

Sunday March 30, 2025

Exploring climate change and health – managing risks and realising collective opportunities across the Barwon South West

Recently the Barwon South West Public Health Unit hosted the fourth regional forum in Camperdown, on Djargurd Wurrung country. The event was opened with Welcome to Country by local Eastern Marr man Joey Cha...

Read More
News image Blueberry-banner

Thursday February 27, 2025

Local outbreak of measles in Victoria

An outbreak of measles has been identified in Victoria, after two new cases were reported who likely acquired their infection in metropolitan Melbourne. These cases have had no history of overseas travel or kno...

Read More
News image Blueberry-banner

Wednesday February 5, 2025

RSV vaccine now available for pregnant women

Pregnant women between 29 and 36 weeks are now able to access free vaccinations against respiratory syncytial virus (RSV), an initiative which aims to prevent newborns requiring hospitalisation and save famili...

Read More
News image Blueberry-banner

Monday January 20, 2025

Measles vaccine recommended prior to international travel

The Department of Health is recommending vaccines for the measles, mumps and rubella (MMR), following cases in Victoria this year.

Read More
News image Coral-banner

Tuesday January 14, 2025

Japanese encephalitis virus detected in Victoria’s north

Those who have visited the state’s north are being reminded to remain vigilant against mosquitoes, following recent detections of the Japanese encephalitis virus.

Read More
News image Coral-banner

Monday January 13, 2025

Health alert: Imported Ayurvedic medicines lead contaminated

The Victorian Department of Health is warning about cases of lead poisoning caused by the ingestion of imported Ayurvedic medicines contaminated with lead.

Read More