Urgent health warning as the first case of a deadly mosquito-borne virus is detected in Australia
The likely first summer case of a potentially deadly mosquito-borne virus has been identified in regional Victoria.
Japanese encephalitis, a flavivirus related to dengue and yellow fever, was discovered in a resident in the north of the state, the Ministry of Health announced on Tuesday.
The virus has also been picked up by environmental surveillance in northern Victoria along the Murray River, and from mosquitoes and feral pigs in NSW.
The disease is transmitted by mosquitoes and most people do not get sick, but symptoms can include fever, vomiting and headache.
In more severe cases, patients may experience seizures, paralysis, permanent disability, or even death.
Victoria’s acting chief health officer Christian McGrath issued the warning, warning those near the Murray River or neighboring regions to take extra precautions.
These include using repellents on exposed skin and wearing long, loose-fitting clothing outdoors, and ensuring accommodation, including tents, is properly equipped with nets.
‘The risk of mosquito-borne diseases remains high in the coming weeks. Taking steps to prevent mosquito bites is critical to protecting against infection,” Dr. McGrath said.
Japanese encephalitis, a flavivirus related to dengue and yellow fever, was discovered Tuesday in a resident in northern Victoria and is a disease transmitted by mosquitoes (stock)
It comes after a public plea was made in Queensland last week after wet weather created ideal mosquito breeding conditions, increasing the risk of Japanese encephalitis spreading from NSW.
More than 50 local government areas in NSW had been identified as at ‘higher risk’ of the virus, and the virus was also detected during routine mosquito surveillance in the north-west Riverina region.
The risk of infection increases in the warmer months from November to March due to a greater number of mosquitoes.
Children under five years of age and the elderly who are infected with the virus are at greater risk of developing a more serious illness, such as encephalitis
Mosquito testing is carried out during the summer period to help identify high-risk areas.