Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV), a rare mosquito-borne virus that can affect humans, has been detected at two piggeries in Queensland.
The state’s Biosecurity Department has confirmed the findings, but does not provide specific locations or the number of infections.
JEV is spread by mosquitoes and can cause serious health issues in pigs, including reproductive problems.
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It can also lead to neurological symptoms in horses and can be deadly to humans.
This is the first detection of JEV in animals in Queensland since July 2022, and the state also reported a human case of the virus earlier this year.
However, experts explain that it is not an “unexpected” development, as the virus is now established in mainland Australia.
In recent weeks, the virus has been detected in mosquito populations in areas such as Goondiwindi, Inglewood, and Monto, along with feral pigs in New South Wales.
Health officials have warned that mosquito-borne diseases often rise in February as mosquito numbers increase.
“People working with pigs, including those who may have a small herd or pet, should take steps to control mosquitoes, as well as continue to use effective biosecurity measures,” said on the website.
“You can help protect your animals from JEV by including mosquito management in your biosecurity plan.”
People living near pigs or in areas with wild pigs are urged to get vaccinated. The vaccine is available for free at over 100 locations across Queensland.
Currently, no vaccine is available for pigs, and researchers are pushing for urgent development to protect the pig population from the virus.
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