Deadly encephalitis virus found in North Burnett mosquitoes

Local residents have been urged to protect themselves against mosquito bite after the deadly Japanese Encephalitis Virus was found in mosquitoes near Monto, with pig hunters and people who work in or near piggeries urged to take precautions.

Mosquito surveillance programs in the North Burnett of Queensland have confirmed the presence of deadly Japanese encephalitis viruses in Monto.

Mosquito surveillance programs in the North Burnett of Queensland have confirmed the presence of deadly Japanese encephalitis viruses in Monto.

The Wide Bay Public Health Unit on Thursday reminded local residents to continue taking preventive measures to reduce the likelihood of contracting mosquito borne viruses in light of the discovery.

JEV can be transmitted to humans through mosquito bites and can potentially cause severe illnesses or death.

WBPHU director and physician Dr Josette Chor said simple preventative measures could reduce the likelihood of getting bitten.

“Using mosquito repellent is one of the most effective ways to avoid mosquito bites,” she said.

“The best mosquito repellents contain Diethyl Toluamide (DEET), Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus (also known as PMD; p-menthane-3,8 diol).

“Apply it on exposed skin and reapplying within a few hours, following the manufacturer’s instructions,” Dr Chor said.

Mosquito surveillance programs in the North Burnett of Queensland have confirmed the presence of deadly Japanese encephalitis viruses in Monto.

“Another effective way is to cover up with light-coloured, loose-fitting clothing with long sleeves, long trousers, socks, and covered footwear when outside.

“To prevent mosquitoes, use insect screens or nets, avoid peak mosquito activity times, and eliminate standing water around your home.

“Effective vaccines for JEVs are currently available and is recommended for those who are at-risk of contracting Japanese encephalitis.”

Mosquito surveillance programs underway in North Burnett have confirmed the presence of Japaneseencephalitis viruses (JEVs) in Monto. JEV can be transmitted to human through mosquito bites and can potentiallycause severe illnesses or death.

A free JEV vaccine is recommended for at risk groups, including anyone who works, lives or has a planned visit North Burnett and who is at risk of mosquito bites,anyone who works at, lives near, or has planned a visit to a piggery, a pork abattoir or pork rendering plant, and pig doggers and hunters.

The first vaccination session will be organised with the Monto Family Practice at 35 Flinders Street, on February 19, 2025.

Residents can arrange vaccination at a later date as well.

Those who are interested are advised to send your details to [e-mail].

A full list of other JEV vaccination centres can be found on the Queensland Health on Immunisation clinic finder

map.

Mosquito surveillance programs will continue to identify the prevalence of the viruses.

“By avoiding mosquito bites and receiving a JEV vaccine you can significantly reduce the risk of Japanese encephalitis illnesses.”

See the Queensland Health website for more information - www.health.qld.gov.au/cdcg/index/jev

Originally published as Deadly encephalitis virus found in North Burnett mosquitoes