Top expert calls Japanese encephalitis a 'growing global threat' as two Australians die from the virus
A top health scientist has warned of the evolving threat of the Japanese encephalitis outbreak as Australia records its second death.
Encephalitis, which is contracted and spread by mosquitos to humans and animals, emerged in piggeries across NSW, Queensland, Victoria and South Australia last month. On Wednesday, NSW recorded its first virus-ralted death after a man from the Griffith region who was aged in his 70s died. It comes after a man his 60s from northern Victoria died from the virus on February 28.
Health scientist and CEO of the Encephalitis Society Dr Ava Easton has explained how the virus is a growing threat as cases grow in Australia.
A top health scientist has warned of the evolving threat of the Japanese encephalitis outbreak as Australia records its first two deaths and a number of infections
Encephalitis, which is contracted and spread by mosquitos to humans and animals, has emerged in piggeries across NSW, Queensland, Victoria and South Australia last month
Dr Easton revealed that a significant number of people who contract encephalitis will either die from the virus or face 'life-changing' effects from their bout of illness.
'For those who develop encephalitis as a result of a bite from a mosquito, nearly a third of those who contract encephalitis in that way will sadly die, and a third to 50 per cent will be left with serious to life changing consequences,' she said.
She told 7NEWS infections like Japanese encephalitis are a growing global threat due to climate changes and increased industrialisationDr Easton explained that the recent floods that have submerged regions in eastern Australia have created the perfect breeding conditions for mosquitos in those areas, who in turn can easily infect local fauna and nearby residents.
'The flooding in Australia has resulted in more water, more migratory birds and that means more capacity for mosquitoes to feed on what we call these virus hosts such as pigs and water birds,' the expert continued before stating that infecting animals gives it 'the potential to transmit it to humans'.
Health scientist and CEO of the Encephalitis Society Dr Ava Easton has explained why the virus is a such a significant threat, saying, 'I think infections like Japanese encephalitis are a growing global threat due to climate changes and increased industrialisation'
The recent floods that have submerged regions in eastern Australia have created the perfect breeding conditions for mosquitos in those areas, who in turn can easily infect local fauna and nearby residents
Four cases of the virus have been confirmed in South Australia, three in New South Wales, seven in Victoria and one infection has been reported in Queensland
More infections are expected to be recorded over the coming days.
Health officials recently investigated 10 people hospitalised with acute encephalitis across the country and said four of those were now confirmed to be the Japanese variety.
Seven of those people remain in hospital.
Health department spokesman Chris Lease said it was important for people to avoid being bitten by mosquitoes.
'People planning activities around the River Murray are warned to be especially vigilant, particularly between dusk and dawn when mosquitoes are most active,' Dr Lease said.
Health officials recently investigated 10 people hospitalised with acute encephalitis across the country and said four of those were now confirmed to be the Japanese variety. Seven of those people remain in hospital
Most people who are infected with flaviviruses, such as Japanese encephalitis virus, Kokobera virus, West Nile virus, and Murray Valley encephalitis virus are asymptomatic or develop a mild illness.
However, a small number of infected people will develop encephalitis, which may be fatal or cause long-term neurological damage.
Symptoms of encephalitis include confusion, headaches, neck stiffness, tremors, drowsiness and seizures.
Symptoms of encephalitis include confusion, headaches, neck stiffness, tremors, drowsiness and seizures
Dr Lease said while there are some vaccines available for flaviviruses, personal and household protective measures remained the first line of defence, including the use of an insect repellent and wearing long, loose-fitting clothing.
He said mosquito coils could also be useful outside along with insect sprays.
'It is important that people remain vigilant in protecting themselves against mosquito bites, particularly during periods of warmer weather when mosquito activity is high,' Dr Lease said.
There are fears the mosquito borne infection could become an endemic in Australia
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