New South Wales is grappling with the impact of Japanese encephalitis (JE), having recorded its second death linked to the virus this year. A man in his 70s succumbed to the illness in hospital on March 6, following a previous fatality earlier in February, also involving a man of the same age who had been holidaying in the Murrumbidgee region.
With this latest case, the death toll from JE in NSW has risen to three since the virus was first identified in the state in 2022. In addition to the fatalities, a “probable” case has emerged involving a young man in his 20s, who was believed to have contracted the virus while travelling through several districts including Moree Plains, Tamworth, and Gunnedah. Fortunately, he has been discharged from hospital and is recuperating at home, marking him as the fifth confirmed JE case this season.
Dr Jeremy McAnulty, the NSW Health executive director for health protection, stressed the urgency for people to take precautions against mosquito-borne infections, particularly in the wake of recent flooding that has created ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes. Standing water tends to attract these insects, thus raising the potential risk of transmission, especially for people engaged in outdoor activities.
Residents in high-risk areas are encouraged to get vaccinated against JE. Vaccination is available through local general practitioners, Indigenous health services, and pharmacies, with eligibility criteria in place to allow for free vaccination. Individuals interested in receiving the jab should notify their healthcare provider in advance to ensure availability.
Japanese encephalitis is primarily spread by mosquitoes and poses significant health risks, including severe neurological conditions with symptoms such as headaches, convulsions, and impaired consciousness. The virus cannot be transmitted between humans and is not contracted through consumption of pork or pig products. There is currently no specific treatment for JE, so prevention is key; residents should employ mosquito repellents and wear protective clothing to shield themselves from bites.
For more detailed information about JE and preventive measures, individuals can visit the New South Wales health website. It remains crucial that residents remain vigilant, particularly in the context of recent weather patterns that may exacerbate mosquito populations.