A case of Japanese encephalitis has been confirmed in Victoria, prompting a health alert for residents near the Murray River. The virus, transmitted by mosquitoes, can cause severe illness in rare cases.
Japanese encephalitis, a flavivirus related to dengue and yellow fever, was detected in a resident in the state’s north, the Department of Health said. The virus has also been picked up by environmental surveillance in northern Victoria along the Murray River , and in mosquitoes and feral pigs in New South Wales. The disease is transmitted by mosquitoes and most people do not become sick but symptoms can include a fever, vomiting and headaches.
In more severe cases patients can experience seizures, paralysis, permanent disability or even death. Victoria’s acting chief health officer, Christian McGrath, issued the alert and warned those near the Murray River or adjacent regions to take extra precautions. These include using repellant on exposed skin and wearing long, loose-fitting clothing when outside, and ensuring accommodation, including tents, are properly fitted with nets. “The risk of mosquito-borne diseases remains high in the coming weeks. Taking measures is critical to protect against infections,” McGrath said. It comes after a public plea was issued in Queensland last week after wet weather created ideal mosquito breeding conditions, increasing the risk of Japanese encephalitis spreading from NSW. More than 50 NSW local government areas had been identified at “higher risk” of the virus, with it also detected in routine mosquito surveillance in the north-west Riverina region
Japanese Encephalitis Mosquito-Borne Diseases Health Alert Victoria Murray River
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