Urgent mosquito warning issued for southern NSW after Japanese encephalitis case found
A warning has been issued for people to protect themselves from mosquitoes after a possible case of Japanese encephalitis (JE) was detected in southern NSW.
NSW Health said JE is a rare but serious disease spread by mosquitoes and can cause serious neurological illness, with symptoms including headache, confusion, convulsions and loss of consciousness.
The possible case is being investigated in a man in his 60s who may have been exposed to the virus in the Riverina region in December last year.
A new detection was also found in sentinel hens in the Upper Lachlan Shire near Goulburn earlier this year; This flock of chickens was used by NSW Health to provide early warning about the presence of mosquito-borne viruses.
NSW Health said results from the sentinel chicken showed JE was “likely circulating in the area”.
There is currently no specific treatment for JE, but the virus can be protected with a vaccine.
Murrumbidgee and Southern NSW LHD Public Health Manager Alison Nikitas said anyone living or working in areas at risk of JE should take precautions to prevent being bitten by mosquitoes, book vaccinations and check they are eligible for supportive treatment.
“There is no specific treatment for JE, so it is very important that people living in or traveling to these areas are aware of the increased risk,” Ms Nikitas said.
“What is more important is the availability of a safe, effective vaccine to protect against the JE virus, which is free to anyone who lives or routinely works in various inland areas, as well as people in some other high-risk occupations.”
NSW Health recommends applying repellents containing DEET, picaridin or lemon eucalyptus oil to exposed skin to prevent bites by mosquitoes.
They also noted the importance of reapplying repellents, especially after swimming.
Officials encourage people in high-risk areas to wear loose-fitting, long sleeping shirts, long pants, socks and closed-toe shoes and to avoid going outside during dusk and dawn hours when mosquitoes are most prevalent.
Additionally, people can use bug sprays, misters, and mosquito coils to repel insects while covering windows and doors with screens.
To protect babies and young children, authorities recommend using mosquito nets in carriers.
Finally, by eliminating items that can collect water in your home, you will reduce the possibility of mosquitoes breeding in your home.
It is recommended to move items such as empty pots and old tires outside or outside the house.
