WITH Japanese encephalitis virus, or JEV, spreading further south of Australia, and into parts of Victoria and New South Wales, health experts are warning the risk is much higher than previously considered.
Recent outbreaks along the Murray Valley region have increased risk of contracting the disease and people are being encouraged to visit their local GP for vaccination.
In 2022, NSW Health conducted a survey found that one in 11 people who took part showed evidence of previous infection.
Now, Balranald residents previously exposed to JEV are being invited to take part in medical research aimed at better understanding the disease.
A research team will be in Balranald on Friday, June 20, to meet with community members interested in participating in the study.
Future visits to other areas, including Swan Hill and Mildura, are also being considered.
Peter Doherty Institute professor Stephen Kent said JEV is a serious disease in urgent need of better treatment options.
“Japanese encephalitis virus is transmitted by mosquitoes and can cause severe brain infections in a small number of people,” he said.
“There are no specific treatments, just supportive care and intensive care if symptoms become serious.”
Although a vaccine exists, it’s not widely administered across Australia.
“There is a vaccine against JEV, but it’s typically only given to those considered at risk,” Professor Kent said. “It’s not part of a general vaccination program.”
With climate change bringing wetter seasons and altering mosquito habitats, the virus is spreading further south in Australia.
“Historically JEV has been found in Asia,” Professor Kent said.
“But in recent years, especially during periods of heavy rain, it has spread into regions like the Murray Valley due to rising mosquito populations.”
Professor Kent said that a free vaccine is available for eligible risk groups.
“The vaccine is very effective,” he said. “While it’s not recommended for everyone, it is offered at no cost to people in high-risk areas or occupations.”
Most people infected with JEV do not show symptoms.
However, in rare cases of less than one per cent, the virus can cause serious infection of the central nervous system.
With the potential for JEV exposure increasing, health authorities are urging those at risk to speak with their GP about vaccination.
Free vaccines are available to people living or working regularly in eligible local government areas.
To check eligibility in Victoria visit health.vic.gov.au and in NSW go to health.nsw.gov.au; and search Japanese Encephalitis.
In the meantime, people are urged to practice caution and protect themselves from mosquito bites, particularly during wetter seasons or outbreaks.
