March 17, 2025
Queenslanders have been urged again to take measures to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes after Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) was detected in Brisbane on Friday.
Queensland Health confirmed at the weekend that routine mosquito surveillance programs had found JEV present in mosquitoes trapped at Hemmant.
Chief Health Officer Dr Heidi Carroll said JEV activity had previously been detected in the Goondiwindi and North Burnett regions.
“This latest detection is the first for Brisbane and tells us that more mosquito populations are likely carrying the virus. It’s critical that Queenslanders remain extra vigilant against mosquito bites across the State, no matter where they live,” Dr Carroll said.
“While most people infected with JEV experience only mild symptoms or no symptoms at all, those who do develop more serious symptoms may experience fever, headache, abdominal pain or vomiting, typically within five to 15 days of being bitten. Tragically, in some cases it can cause severe neurological illness and even death.”
A man died from the disease in a Sydney hospital in February. Authorities believe he contracted JEV after being bitten by a mosquito while holidaying in the Murrumbidgee region of southern NSW in January.
Dr Carroll said the best line of defence from the virus was prevention.
“I encourage all Queenslanders to adopt personal protective measures to avoid mosquito bites such as using repellents containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus, wearing long, loose-fitting, light-coloured clothing, and using mosquito coils (outdoors) and insecticide vaporisers,” she said.
“Pooled water makes ideal conditions for mosquitoes to breed, so it’s important that everyone makes sure to, wherever possible, remove standing water around their home following recent rain and flooding.
“We know it’s common to see mosquito numbers increase after wet and warm weather and an increase in mosquito numbers raises the risk of contracting mosquito-borne illnesses, such as Ross River virus and JEV.”
In recent weeks, JEV has been detected in mosquito populations in the Darling Downs and Wide Bay regions, as well as in mosquito and feral animal populations in other areas.
Dr Carroll said vaccination was recommended for people at increased risk of exposure to JEV.
“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,” she said.
Since 2022, more than 18,000 Queenslanders have been vaccinated against JEV.
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