The risk of catching Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) and other mosquito-borne diseases is higher this summer due to warm, wet weather providing ideal mosquito breeding conditions.
JEV is spread only through mosquito bites and is more common in areas of increased mosquito activity, such as lakes, creeks, rivers and dams. People should also be vigilant around areas where animals that can infect mosquitoes with JEV – such as waterbirds and pigs – are present.
If you’re travelling this summer, it is important to be aware of areas with mosquito activity and follow simple steps to avoid mosquito bites.
People are encouraged to use effective mosquito repellent containing DEET, Picaridin, or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus on all exposed skin and wear long, loose fitting clothing when outside, especially at dusk and dawn. Mosquito nets or screens should be properly fitted to accommodation and tents.
Most people who catch JEV will have no symptoms and severe illness is rare. Symptomatic infection usually begins with sudden onset of fever, headache and vomiting.
A very small proportion of people infected, less than one per cent, may develop a serious illness such as encephalitis and experience symptoms including neck stiffness, severe headache and coma, and more rarely, permanent neurological complications or death.
Anyone experiencing these symptoms should urgently seek medical advice.
JEV cannot be transmitted from human to human nor by consuming meat from an infected animal.
Vaccines are available to those most at risk of infection, based on locality and profession.
Find out more about vaccination Find out more about spread of JEV