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Health
15 January 2025

Japanese Encephalitis Virus Detected, Risks Rise For Australians

Health officials urge vigilance and preventive actions as virus spreads across New South Wales and Victoria during summer.

Public health authorities across Australia are sounding alarms as recent detections of the Japanese encephalitis virus (JE) and Murray Valley encephalitis virus (MVE) raise concerns about mosquito-borne diseases during the summer months. The New South Wales (NSW) Health department has issued alerts urging holidaymakers and local residents to take precautions against mosquito bites after confirming the presence of these potentially lethal viruses.

Dr. Jeremy McAnulty, the Executive Director of Health Protection at NSW Health, noted the increased risk of diseases like JE and MVE due to warm conditions, which create ideal environments for mosquitoes. He emphasizes the importance of vigilance, saying, "Each year from November to April, NSW Health undertakes surveillance across the state to provide important information about when mosquito-borne disease risk is elevated." Just recently, JE was reported present in mosquitoes discovered around Moree, marking the onset of doomsday warnings.

JE and MVE infections, though rare, can lead to severe health consequences. Typically, the symptoms include fever, headache, neck stiffness, and more alarming manifestations such as seizures and disorientation. To date, there have been about 80 combined cases of JE and MVE since these viruses became prominent four years ago, resulting in seven fatalities linked to JE, with victims reported across Queensland, NSW, South Australia, and Victoria.

This latest alert follows concerning trends: though outbreaks of JE are often associated with flooding conditions brought on by La Niña weather patterns, the current warm and dry summer across many parts of Australia has seemingly defied expectations. Dr. McAnulty warned, "Mosquitoes thrive in warm conditions, increasing the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses such as Murray Valley encephalitis, Japanese encephalitis, Ross River and Barmah Forest viruses. This was evident last summer, which saw widespread JE infection due to high mosquito and waterbird populations following prolonged flooding."

Flooding historically creates breeding grounds for mosquitoes, but contrastingly, the prevalent heat this summer has left some perplexed as to how JE and MVE have resurfaced amid diminished waterborne habitats. Surveillance data indicates viral activity continues, as noted by JE detected not only in mosquitoes but also through environmental sources and feral pigs. The role of feral pig populations has raised eyebrows, with their numbers rising potentially contributing to mosquito and wild animal interactions around dwindling water sources. This intermingling could exacerbate the spread of JE and MVE.

Authorities remain alert, particularly as mosquito populations have begun to dominate regions showcasing signs of infections. From Griffith to Narromine to northern Victoria, community health services are taking no chances. Anyone residing or traveling through these areas is encouraged to seek vaccination against JE if eligible, as the health department has rolled out free vaccination programs. Though vaccines against MVE and Ross River viruses are unavailable, personal protective measures are being heavily advocated.

Residents can decrease their risk of infection by taking steps to prevent mosquito bites: utilizing insect repellent containing DEET or picaridin, wearing long-sleeved clothing, and steering clear of outdoor activity during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active. Dr. McAnulty reinforced these recommendations, encouraging the public to adopt mosquito control strategies effectively to safeguard their health: "Actions to prevent mosquito bites include applying repellent to exposed skin, wearing light, loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts, and removing items around homes where mosquitoes can breed. Also, if camping, use tents with fly screens or safeguard infants with mosquito nets."

The reminders issued by health authorities are clear — the risk posed by mosquito-borne viruses requires attention and action this summer. Health officials are focused on managing mosquito populations and preventing outbreaks to minimize adverse health impacts. Investing time this summer to stay informed and proactive can drastically improve personal safety against these viral threats.