Japanese encephalitis virus: What to watch for

A mosquito-borne virus with the potential to infect pigs, horses, and humans, has been detected at a piggery near Lockington.

Farmers are being urged to report unexplained pig deaths, especially in unborn or newborn piglets, as a mosquito-borne disease is detected in Victoria.

Agriculture Victoria has confirmed Japanese encephalitis virus has been detected at a single piggery near Lockington.

JEV, which has not previously been detected in mainland Australia, has also been confirmed recently in piggeries in both NSW and Queensland.

The virus has the potential to be transmitted to humans, but is not spread directly from pigs to people.

It cannot spread from pig to pig.

Victorian chief veterinary officer Graeme Cooke said the virus causes reproductive failure in pigs, with stillbirths and piglets showing signs of central nervous system disease.

“Japanese encephalitis virus can also be transmitted to humans through infected mosquitoes so we are working closely with the Department of Health to understand the implications and risks of human exposure,” Dr Cooke said.

“There is no risk to humans from eating pig meat.”

Horses may also be infected, Dr Cooke said, with owners urged to protect their horses from mosquitoes.

“Extensive surveillance activities are underway as well as testing of previously collected samples to better understand the disease situation, and we will also be engaging veterinarians in the pig and horse industries, as well as industry peak bodies, to drive awareness of the disease.”

Symptoms include stillbirths and the birth of weak piglets that may exhibit signs of central nervous system disease.

In horses, symptoms include lethargy, nervous signs or sometimes hyperexcitability.

Farmers and veterinarians should remain vigilant for signs of the virus.

Concerns are to be reported to the Emergency Animal Disease Watch Hotline on 1800 675 888.