For the first time, health officials have found Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) in a pig in Central Queensland. The discovery in Banana Shire Council territory has set off alarm bells for public health teams across the region.
“We’re seeing JEV in places it hasn’t been before,” warned Dr. Heidi Carroll, Queensland’s Chief Health Officer. “This Central Queensland detection tells us the virus is hitching rides with more mosquito populations across our state.”
The numbers paint a concerning picture. Three Queenslanders have fallen ill with JEV since the year began. Meanwhile, tests have revealed the virus lurking in mosquitoes and pigs across multiple regions of Queensland.
JEV travels through a natural chain of infection. Mosquitoes pick up the virus when they feed on infected pigs or wading birds. Later, when these mosquitoes bite humans, they can pass the virus along. While many infected people never develop symptoms, others face serious complications including inflammation of the brain.
The problem isn’t isolated. Health teams are tackling multiple mosquito-carried illnesses simultaneously – JEV, Ross River virus, dengue fever, and Murray Valley encephalitis are all circulating in Queensland this year. Recent heavy rainfall has created ideal breeding conditions for mosquitoes.
“The outdoors is full of risks right now, especially at dawn and dusk,” Dr. Carroll explained. “Anyone camping or hiking needs to take extra steps to protect themselves.”
Health officials recommend a simple defense strategy: use repellents with DEET or picaridin, cover up with loose, light-colored clothing, spray insecticides in outdoor areas, and make sure camping gear has proper screening against tiny invaders.
For those at higher risk, help is available. Free JEV vaccines can now be found at more than 100 locations across Queensland. People working with pigs, living near pig farms, transporting pigs, or providing veterinary care qualify for these free shots.
“If pigs are part of your daily life, don’t wait,” urged Dr. Carroll. “The vaccine is your best protection against this virus.”
Health officials have extended vaccine eligibility to residents of Hemmant in Brisbane.
Behind the scenes, Queensland Health continues working alongside local councils to track mosquito populations and monitor the virus’s spread. Their expanded surveillance network aims to stay ahead of the threat as it moves into new territories.
The message is clear: as JEV expands its reach across Queensland, personal protection against mosquito bites has never been more important.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) and how dangerous is it?
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Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) is a mosquito-borne disease that can cause inflammation of the brain. While not everyone infected will get sick, it can lead to serious illness in some people. The virus is rare but potentially serious, with symptoms ranging from mild fever to severe neurological complications. In Central Queensland, the first detection in a pig indicates increased risk for humans in the area.
How does JEV spread and can it be transmitted from person to person?
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JEV spreads through the bite of infected mosquitoes, particularly those that have previously bitten infected pigs or wading birds. The virus cannot spread directly from person to person or through casual contact. The transmission cycle requires mosquitoes as vectors, which is why prevention focuses on avoiding mosquito bites.
What areas of Queensland are currently at risk for JEV?
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JEV has been detected in multiple areas across Queensland. The most recent detection is in Central Queensland’s Banana Shire Council area, which is the first detection in this region. The virus has also been found in other parts of the state, and vaccine eligibility has been extended to residents of Hemmant in Brisbane. Health officials warn that more mosquito populations across the state are likely carrying the virus.
How can I protect myself from JEV infection?
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The best protection against JEV is to avoid mosquito bites. Health officials recommend: applying insect repellents containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus; wearing long, loose-fitting, light-colored clothing; using insecticide sprays or coils in outdoor areas; and ensuring proper screening when camping. These precautions are especially important during dawn and dusk when mosquitoes are most active.
Who is eligible for the free JEV vaccine in Queensland?
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Free JEV vaccines are available for people at increased risk of exposure to the virus. This includes piggery workers, transport workers handling pigs, veterinarians, people who live near piggeries, and residents of certain at-risk areas including Hemmant in Brisbane. The vaccine is available at over 100 vaccination providers across Queensland, though some may charge a consultation fee.
What symptoms should I watch for if I suspect JEV infection?
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While not everyone infected with JEV will show symptoms, those who do may experience fever, headache, and vomiting in mild cases. In more severe cases, symptoms can include neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, seizures, and coma due to brain inflammation (encephalitis). If you experience these symptoms, especially after being in areas with mosquitoes, seek medical attention immediately.
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