A second case of Japanese encephalitis has been reported in a resident of northern Victoria, raising concerns among health officials. The individual likely contracted the virus while in the Riverina region of New South Wales near the Murray River.
Residents and visitors in northern Victoria and inland riverine areas, particularly those close to the Murray, have been alerted about the elevated risk of infection. Health authorities have stressed the importance of taking preventative measures against mosquito bites, with Chief Health Officer Dr Tarun Weeramanthri noting that the virus has been found in environmental surveillance efforts along the Murray River from Mildura to Moira.
To mitigate the risk, residents are advised to apply mosquito repellent containing either picaridin or DEET on exposed skin, wear loose-fitting long clothing, and ensure tents or other accommodations have adequate mosquito netting or screens. Additionally, free vaccines for the Japanese encephalitis virus are available for eligible individuals living in 24 high-risk local government areas across northern Victoria.
For those camping or travelling in these high-risk zones, it’s essential to check that mosquito screens are undamaged, keep doors and tent flaps closed, and avoid setting up camp near wetlands.
Currently, no specific treatment exists for Japanese encephalitis; therefore, the best defence remains to prevent mosquito bites. Symptoms of the disease can manifest within five to 15 days following a bite by an infected mosquito, including fever, headache, and vomiting. Individuals diagnosed with Japanese encephalitis typically require supportive treatment to manage symptoms, which may necessitate hospital admission.
Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely and encourage the community to stay informed and vigilant against the threat of this serious mosquito-borne disease.