Japanese Encephalitis

Last week we heard that Japanese Encephalitis (JE) has recently been identified in commercial piggeries in locations in NSW, Queensland, Victoria and South Australia. There are fears that the virus, which is spread to humans by infected mosquitoes, will proliferate given the flood conditions in Queensland and northern NSW. NSW Health is currently working to gain a better understanding of the full extent of JE in NSW.

The following information about JE has been provided by NSW Health.

What are the symptoms?

Less than 1 per cent of people infected with JE will experience symptoms. Some infected people experience an illness with fever and headache. People with a severe infection may experience neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, coma and seizures. If you have any of these symptoms, seek medical treatment. Among those who develop severe infection, some will go on to experience permanent neurological complications or possibly death. Symptoms, if they are to occur, usually develop 5 to 15 days after being bitten by infected mosquitoes.

How is it spread?

JE is spread by the bite of infected Culex species mosquitoes which are commonly found in NSW. Culex mosquitoes can become infected with JE from biting infected animals. The virus is spread when mosquitoes bite an infected animal and the mosquito then bites a human. Infected pigs and some waterbirds are the animals more likely to infect mosquitoes. Humans are not able to pass JE to other humans. Humans cannot get infected with JE by touching an infected animal or eating animal products including pork or poultry products.

Who is at risk?

Local infection risks in NSW are likely highest among:

• People working at and/or living close to piggeries which have tested positive for JE.
• People who engage in outdoor activities (e.g., camping, fishing, hiking) near significant mosquito populations, particularly near waterways.

How is it prevented?

• Avoid mosquito bites: The mosquitoes that transmit JE are most active at dawn and dusk and into the evening. Take extra care during peak mosquito biting hours, avoid the outdoors if possible or take preventive actions such as applying insect repellent. Stay and sleep in rooms/tents protected with flyscreens and check that screens do not have any rips or holes.
• Vaccination: A safe and effective vaccine for JE is available for people aged 2 months and older.

How is it diagnosed?

JE infection is usually diagnosed from measuring levels of antibodies to JE in samples of blood or spinal fluid. If you have been infected, you do not put others at risk. If you have symptoms consistent with JE, seek medical treatment.

If you have any severe signs such as headache, vomiting, confusion, paralysis or seizures you should call 000 immediately.

• Topics:

• Health & Wellness