Queenslanders are urged to take measures to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes as health authorities confirmed the first detection of Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) in Brisbane.
Queensland Health confirmed routine mosquito surveillance programs detected the presence of JEV in Hemmant in Brisbane on Friday, warning also that the risk of human exposure may increase after recent flooding following Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.
Chief Health Officer Dr Heidi Carroll said this latest detection meant JEV posed an increased risk of infection in humans across a number of regions in Queensland, and that increased mosquito surveillance is currently underway as a result.
“We have already detected Japanese Encephalitis Virus activity through mosquito surveillance in the Goondiwindi and North Burnett regions,” Dr Carroll said.
“This latest detection is the first for Brisbane and tells us that more mosquito populations are likely carrying the virus. It’s critical that Queenslanders remain extra vigilant against mosquito bites across the state, no matter where they live.
“While most people infected with JEV experience only mild symptoms or no symptoms at all, those who do develop more serious symptoms may experience fever, headache, abdominal pain or vomiting, typically within five to 15 days of being bitten. Tragically, in some cases it can cause severe neurological illness and even death.”
Dr Carroll said the best line of defence from the virus was prevention, and encouraged Queenslanders to take small but important steps to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
“I encourage all Queenslanders to adopt personal protective measures to avoid mosquito bites such as using repellents containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus, wearing long, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing, and using mosquito coils (outdoors) and insecticide vaporisers,” she said.
“Pooled water makes ideal conditions for mosquitoes to breed, so it’s important that everyone makes sure to, wherever possible, remove standing water around their home following recent rain and flooding.
“We know it’s common to see mosquito numbers increase after wet and warm weather and an increase in mosquito numbers raises the risk of contracting mosquito-borne illnesses, such as Ross River virus and JEV.
Queenslanders also need to be vigilant against mosquito bites due to the risk of Ross River virus, which is prevalent across the state, including all of south east Queensland.”
In January this year, Queensland recorded its first locally-acquired human case of JEV since 2022. This case is likely to have been infected in the Darling Downs region, near Goondiwindi.
In recent weeks, JEV has been detected in mosquito populations in the Darling Downs and Wide Bay regions, as well as in mosquito and feral animal populations in other jurisdictions.
Dr Carroll said vaccination is recommended for people at increased risk of exposure to the virus.
“Mosquitoes become infected with JEV after they bite infected pigs or wading birds. JEV can then be spread to humans through the bite of an infected mosquito,” she said.
“Piggery workers are at risk of exposure to JEV due to their work. It’s very important if you work at, live near or have a planned visit to a piggery, to take advantage of free vaccination against JEV. Transport workers, veterinarians or others involved in the care of pigs are also eligible.”
The JEV vaccine is available at over 100 vaccination providers across Queensland, including selected GPs, pharmacies and community immunisation providers. While some providers may charge a consultation fee, the vaccine itself is free for eligible Queenslanders.
Since 2022, more than 18,000 Queenslanders have been vaccinated against JEV.
There is no vaccine for Ross River or dengue viruses, so prevention depends on not getting bitten by mosquitoes. Mosquitoes bite at any time of the day, but some species are most active at dusk and dawn.
Simple steps to prevent mosquito bites include:
- applying effective insect repellents that contain DEET, Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus to exposed skin and reapplying as directed by the manufacturer
- wearing loose, light-coloured clothing to cover up arms, legs and feet
- using insecticide sprays, insecticide-based vapour dispensing units and, mosquito coils, if outdoors in a well-ventilated area
- ensuring proper screening in tents or sleep under a mosquito net when camping to prevent mosquitoes entering.
Background information:
For more information about JEV and a full list of those eligible for the vaccine, please visit the Queensland Health website.
A full list of JEV vaccine service providers is also available on the Queensland Health website.