February 13, 2025
Queensland Health has renewed a warning to residents to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes after Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) and Ross River virus have been detected in more insect populations.
In recent weeks, JEV has been detected in mosquitoes in Monto, Inglewood and Goondiwindi.
Queensland Chief Health Officer Dr Heidi Carroll said that notifications of mosquito-borne illnesses start to rise in February as mosquito populations increase.
“Mosquito numbers always increase significantly after wet and warm weather, and Queenslanders should be extra vigilant against bites across the State at this time,” Dr Carroll said.
“The most effective way to prevent mosquito borne diseases is to avoid mosquito bites.
“I encourage eligible Queenslanders in identified at-risk locations to be vaccinated against the virus.
“Piggery workers are at risk of exposure to JEV due to their work. It’s very important if you work at, live near or have a planned visit to a piggery, to take advantage of free vaccination against JEV.
“Transport workers, veterinarians or others involved in the care of pigs are also eligible.
“While most people infected with JEV experience mild symptoms or are asymptomatic, those who do develop symptoms may experience fever, headache, abdominal pain or vomiting, typically within five to 15 days of being bitten.”
Since 2022, more than 18,000 eligible Queenslanders have been vaccinated against JEV.
There is no vaccine for Ross River or dengue viruses, so prevention depends on not getting bitten.
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Simple steps to prevent mosquito bites include:
- Applying effective insect repellents that contain DEET, Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus to exposed skin and reapplying as directed by the manufacturer
- Wearing loose, light-coloured clothing to cover up arms, legs and feet
- Using insecticide sprays, insecticide-based vapour dispensing units and, mosquito coils, if outdoors in a well-ventilated area
- Ensuring proper screening in tents or sleep under a mosquito net when camping to prevent mosquitoes entering.
For more information about JEV and vaccine eligibility, visit the Queensland Health website
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Related articles:
- Alerts Issued About JEV
- UQ Team Develops JEV Vaccine
- Free Vax Available Against JEV
- Horse, Pig Owners Told: Stay Vigilant
- JEV in Third Piggery
- JEV In Second Piggery
- $69m Plan To Tackle JEV
- Vaccine Rollout Targets JEV
- Alert Issued Over Encephalitis
- Warm, Wet Weather Breeds Mozzies
- JEV Detected In Piggeries
