General News
11 March, 2025
Virus detected over the border
Darling Downs Health is urging the community to protect itself from the risk of mosquito-borne viruses after two new cases of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) were detected in New South Wales, including one near the Queensland border.
Darling Downs Health’s Public Health Director, Marina Paine said following the recent detection of JEV in the Tenterfield Shire, residents of Southern Downs Regional Council are urged to take measures to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes and obtain the JEV vaccination.
“The free JEV vaccination program has been extended to Southern Downs Regional Council in light of the new case of JEV located nearby,” Ms Paine said.
“This is just one of the simple measures which can go a long way to prevent JEV.
“By applying an insect repellent, you are using one of the most effective methods to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
“Choose a repellent containing DEET, Picaridin or Oil of Lemon Eucalyptus and apply it to all exposed skin.
‘It is crucial to reapply as directed, especially after exercise, working outdoors or swimming.”
Ms Paine said another important way to protect yourself is to cover up with loose fitting, light-coloured clothing and covered footwear, avoid peak mosquito activity times, and eliminate standing water around your home.
Following the extensive rainfall in the region throughout summer, the risk of mosquito-borne viruses increases.
Paired with warmer weather, these conditions create ideal breeding grounds for mosquitoes, leading to a surge in their population.
A free JEV vaccine is recommended for residents who work, live or regularly visit the local government areas of South-west area of Toowoomba Regional Council (surrounding and including Millmerran), Southern Downs, Western Downs, Goondiwindi, South Burnett. North Burnett, Balonne and Quilpie.
It is also recommended for the following at-risk groups:
People who work at, live near, or have a planned visit to a piggery, a pork abattoir or pork rendering plant.
Pig doggers and hunters.
People who work with mosquitoes including environmental health officers and entomologists.
Local vaccination centres include Allora Medical Practice and Cains Pharmacy in Pittsworth as well as several medical centres in Toowoomba and Warwick.
The majority of JEV cases are asymptomatic, with less than one per cent of those infected developing the disease.
Those who do develop symptoms may experience a fever and headache, or abdominal pain and vomiting in children.
In rare cases, the virus causes severe encephalitis (swelling of the brain), making these people very sick and requiring care in hospital, and can result in death.
There is no specific treatment for this virus.
Those concerned should seek medical advice.
The first locally-acquired human case of JEV in Queensland since 2022 was detected in January this year near Goondiwindi.
In recent weeks, JEV has been detected in mosquito populations in Goondiwindi, Inglewood and Monto, as well as in mosquito and feral pig populations in New South Wales.
“By avoiding mosquito bites and choosing to be vaccinated against JEV, you can significantly reduce the risk of mosquito-borne illnesses.”
