Initial case of Japanese encephalitis found in Victoria this summer.

Health officials in Victoria have issued an alert after a resident of northern Victoria was suspected to have contracted Japanese encephalitis. This is the first known case of the virus in Victoria this summer. The virus has also been detected in environmental surveillance in the same region, as well as in mosquitoes and feral pigs in New South Wales.

According to Dr. Christian McGrath, the Acting Chief Health Officer, these findings suggest that the Japanese encephalitis virus is likely circulating in northern Victoria this summer. He also emphasized the importance of taking precautions to avoid mosquito bites as the risk of mosquito-borne diseases remains high in the coming weeks.

Japanese encephalitis is a flavivirus that is closely related to dengue and yellow fever. It is spread to humans through the bites of infected mosquitoes and can cause a rare but serious infection of the brain. Symptoms of the virus may include fever, vomiting, and headaches.

Interestingly, this is the first time cases of Japanese encephalitis have been reported in Victoria in 2022. Residents and those living or traveling to northern Victoria, especially in inland riverine regions and near the Murray River, are warned of a potentially higher risk of infection and are advised to take precautions to avoid mosquito bites.

Fortunately, a free Japanese encephalitis vaccine is available for those most at risk of being exposed to the virus. This includes individuals living in 24 local government areas in northern Victoria that have been classified as 'high-risk'. It is crucial to protect against infections by taking measures to avoid mosquito bites.

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