NSW Health issues mosquito warning for Southern NSW after rare case of Japanese encephalitis detected

A warning has been issued for communities in southern parts of New South Wales to protect themselves from mosquito bites after a probable case of Japanese encephalitis, a rare but serious illness was detected.

JE is spread by infected mosquitoes which in some cases can cause severe neurological illness with headache, confusion, convulsions and reduced consciousness, according to NSW Health.

A man in his 60s is being investigated for the virus, who was likely exposed to it in the Riverina region in late December.

NSW Health detected JE in sentinel chickens in the Upper Lachlan Shire earlier this year, indicating that the virus is “likely circulating in the area”.

Sentinel chicken surveillance is used to provide early warnings about the presence of mosquito-borne viruses.

Director of Public Health for Murrumbidgee and Southern NSW LHD, Alison Nikitas, said that anyone living or working in areas at high-risk for JE should take steps to protect themselves by avoiding mosquito bites and getting vaccinated.

High-risk areas include Albury, Tamworth, and Wagga Wagga among many other regions.

“There is no specific treatment for JE so it is very important for people who live in or travel to these areas to be aware of the elevated risk,” Ms Nikitas said.

However, there is a safe and effective vaccine, she said, which is free to anyone who lives or routinely works in various inland regions.

The vaccine for JE is available through general practitioners, Aboriginal health services and pharmacists by making an appointment, as it may require a few days’ notice for the vaccine to be ordered in.

NSW Health suggests using repellents that contain DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus on exposed skin to prevent mosquito bites, and to re-apply regularly.

It’s best to wear light, loose-fitting long-sleeve shirts, long pants, socks, and covered footwear, and avoid going outdoors during peak mosquito times - particularly dawn and dusk.

Insecticide sprays and mosquito coils are also useful in repelling mosquitoes, NSW Health said, but should only be used outdoors in well-ventilated areas.

Make sure to cover windows and doors with insect screens and make sure there are no gaps for mosquitoes to get inside.

Additionally, NSW Health suggest removing items that collect water, such as old tyres and empty pots, from around your home to reduce the places where mosquitoes can breed.

JE cannot be transmitted directly between humans or from any other animal.