Victorians are urged to protect themselves from mosquito bites after the state’s Health Department recently detected the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV).
The virus, which can cause serious brain infections, was identified in two mosquito traps in Moira Shire.
This marks the first detection of the virus in Victoria for this season.
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Deputy Chief Health Officer Christian McGrath noted an increase in JEV activity in northern Victoria recently.
“We have not seen a lot of activity in Japanese encephalitis since we first saw it in Victoria in the season of 2021-22,” he said.
Two similar findings, including one case in New South Wales and a confirmed human case in Victoria, were reported last month.
A man from Katunga remains in critical condition in a Melbourne hospital after contracting the virus.
“It is present. It is carried by mosquitoes and therefore presents a risk to people.”
While most JEV infections are asymptomatic or result in mild symptoms like low fever and headache, about one per cent of cases can lead to severe brain infections with serious consequences.
Residents and visitors in northern Victoria, especially near the Murray River, are advised to take precautions against mosquito bites.
Recommended measures include wearing long sleeves and pants, using insect repellent, and avoiding outdoor activities during peak mosquito times.
A free JEV vaccine is available for eligible individuals in 24 high-risk local government areas in northern Victoria. For more information on JEV and vaccination eligibility, visit the Victoria Health Department‘s website.
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