Health warning issued as Japanese encephalitis case detected in northern Victoria | USAEMALL.com

A suspected case of Japanese encephalitis has been detected in northern Victoria, prompting Victoria Health to issue an alert about the dangerous mosquito-borne virus.

It is the first identified case identified in a human in Victoria this summer.

Victoria Health confirmed the virus has also been detected with environmental surveillance in northern Victoria.

Authorities warn the areas of concern include the inland riverine regions and near the Murray River.

Japanese encephalitis, a flavivirus related to dengue and yellow fever, is spread only to humans through bites from infected mosquitoes.

While more than 90 per cent of JE virus infections are asymptomatic, illness usually begins 5-15 days after exposure with sudden onset of fever, headache and vomiting.

It can also cause a serious infection of the brain, leading to permanent disability or even death, however this is only likely to occur in one per cent of those infected.

In the alert, Acting chief health officer Christian McGrath urged residents and anyone travelling to northern Victoria could be at a higher risk of infection and are being warned to try to avoid getting mosquito bites.

“These findings indicate that JE virus is likely circulating in northern Victoria this summer,” Dr McGrath said.

“The risk of mosquito-borne diseases remains high in the coming weeks,” he said.

“Taking measures to avoid mosquito bites is critical to protect against infections.”

The virus has also recently been detected in mosquitoes and feral pigs in New South Wales this summer.

In Victoria, a vaccine is available free for specific groups at higher risk of exposure to the virus.