What you need to know about Japanese Encephalitis Virus after ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred
Protect yourself following heavy rainfall
Recent frequent and heavy rainfall can lead to the rapid formation of stagnant water. But did you know that your water-logged pot plants could put you at risk of a virus?
Metro North Public Health Unit Entomologist Jonathan Darbro explains how key it is to prevent mosquito breeding grounds.
“Those seemingly harmless puddles left after a downpour are, in fact, potential nurseries for a future swarm of mosquitoes,” he said.
It’s important to remember that mosquitoes are not just pests; they are also vectors for several serious human illnesses, including Japanese Encephalitis Virus.
What is the Japanese Encephalitis Virus?
Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) is a flavivirus related to dengue, carried by some types of mosquitoes.
Although Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) is a rare outcome of JEV infection, it’s a serious concern as it can make you very unwell.
JEV spreads through mosquito bites and symptoms appear 5-15 days post-bite. It doesn’t spread person-to-person.
Signs and symptoms can include:
Symptoms of JEV can vary and some people may not have symptoms at all, but mild symptomatic infections may present with:
- Fever and headache.
- Abdominal pain and vomiting (especially in children).
Severe JEV disease can lead to acute encephalitis (brain inflammation), which can include:
- Sudden onset of high fever and chills.
- Severe headache.
- Neck stiffness.
- Disorientation.
- Convulsions.
- Paralysis.
- Coma.
How can I keep myself safe?
Protecting yourself against mosquito bites is the best way to prevent catching a virus like JEV. Jon recommends the following tips:
- Use Insect Repellent:
- Apply insect repellent containing DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus to exposed skin.
- Eliminate Mosquito Breeding Sites:
- Regularly empty containers around your home that hold standing water (e.g., buckets, pots, tires).
- Keep lawns and gardens well-maintained.
- Ensure swimming pools are properly drained or filled when not in use.
- Avoid Mosquito Bites:
- Mosquitoes that transmit JEV are most active around dawn and dusk. Avoid being outside at these times if possible.
- Wear long sleeves and long trousers.
- Make sure your doors and windows have screens.