Japanese encephalitis update

Flooding and heavy rainfall have increased the risk of mosquito-borne diseases such as Japanese encephalitis – but the Department of Health has provided some tips on how you can stay safe.

Japanese encephalitis a rare but potentially serious infection of the brain caused by a virus that can be spread to humans through mosquito bites.

Though the risk of contracting the disease is low, if you live or work in flood affected areas, you may be eligible for a vaccine.

The simplest way to avoid contracting Japanese encephalitis is to avoid mosquito bites – this can be done by covering up with long, loose-fitting clothing, using mosquito repellents containing picardin or DEET on all exposed skin, and limiting outdoor activity.

You should also remove stagnant water around your home, and use ‘knockdown’ fly spray, mosquito coils, or plug-in repellent where you gather outdoors.

For more information on Japanese encephalitis and how to protect yourself against it, visit www.health.vic.gov.au/health-advisories/japanese-encephalitis-vaccination-update.