The death of a second man in New South Wales from Japanese encephalitis has intensified concerns about the spread of this potentially deadly virus across Australia. Following the tragic passing of a man in his 70s after travelling to the Murrumbidgee region, health authorities are urging the public to take precautionary measures as the virus continues to spread.
Japanese encephalitis (JE) is a viral infection transmitted by mosquitoes, with severe consequences for a small proportion of those infected. With new reports confirming the presence of the virus in Brisbane’s mosquitoes, the risk of further outbreaks remains a pressing concern for health officials.
What Is Japanese Encephalitis?
Japanese encephalitis is a mosquito-borne viral infection that can lead to serious neurological complications. The virus is typically found in Southeast Asia and the Western Pacific, with about 68,000 cases reported globally each year, according to The Conversation.
Transmission occurs when mosquitoes feed on infected waterbirds, which are the primary hosts of the virus. In addition to birds, pigs play a key role in spreading the virus, particularly in areas with commercial piggeries. Although pigs are hosts, they pose no food safety risk.
Symptoms of JE are often mild or nonexistent in most cases, with some people experiencing fever, headaches, and vomiting. However, for roughly one in 250 people who contract the virus, more severe symptoms such as neck stiffness, disorientation, and seizures can develop, which may result in permanent neurological damage or death.
The recent deaths in New South Wales—both men in their 70s—highlight the virus’s capacity to cause serious illness, though JE is still considered relatively rare in Australia.
Rising Concerns in Queensland
The detection of Japanese encephalitis virus in mosquitoes in Brisbane’s eastern suburbs has raised further alarm. Historically, the virus had been confined to the Torres Strait and parts of Victoria, New South Wales, and Queensland, but its detection in Brisbane indicates a potential expansion of its range.
Queensland health authorities have confirmed that the virus was found in mosquitoes collected during routine surveillance, and this has prompted an increased focus on mosquito control and public awareness campaigns.
This development comes after several years of increasing virus activity, with the 2021-22 outbreak in southeastern Australia highlighting the connection between flooding, increased mosquito populations, and viral transmission.
Health officials are concerned that the virus could continue to spread, particularly with the onset of flooding rains from Ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, which are expected to further elevate mosquito activity.
To reduce the risk of contracting the virus, experts recommend mosquito bite prevention, such as wearing long-sleeved clothing, using insect repellent containing DEET, and ensuring that homes have properly sealed mosquito screens. Authorities also suggest that people living in at-risk areas consider getting vaccinated against the virus.
The ongoing spread of Japanese encephalitis has prompted health agencies across Australia to bolster their surveillance and mosquito monitoring efforts. With Queensland and New South Wales now on high alert, the government continues to advise vigilance and preventive action.
