Mosquitoes in the Moree region of New South Wales are carrying the dangerous Japanese encephalitis virus, marking the first occurrence of this illness in the state for the year. This outbreak follows a similar detection in Griffith a month prior. Health officials warn that both Japanese encephalitis and the Murray Valley encephalitis virus, recently found in chicken flocks in Cowra and West Wyalong, can lead to severe brain swelling and potentially fatal outcomes.
Symptoms of these viruses include neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, seizures, paralysis, and coma, with a 30% mortality rate among those who develop acute Japanese encephalitis. Individuals in areas deemed high-risk are advised to protect themselves against mosquito bites by wearing light, long-sleeved clothing, using insect repellent, and avoiding outdoor activities during dusk and dawn. Moreover, efforts should be made to eliminate mosquito breeding grounds, such as stagnant water in old containers.
Vaccination for Japanese encephalitis is available through GPs and pharmacies, but there is currently no vaccine for Murray Valley encephalitis. Health officials emphasise the importance of taking precautions, especially in the 55 local government areas at heightened risk for mosquito-borne diseases.