South-east Queenslanders are being urged to take precautions against mosquito-borne illnesses in the wake of severe weather and the detection of a Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV).
Minister for Health, Yvette D’Ath said a public health alert had been issued following a confirmed human case of JEV, with the patient being treated in a Brisbane hospital.
Ms D’Ath said recent rainfall and flooding between the Gold Coast and Wide Bay meant people were at greater risk of contracting illnesses from mosquitoes.
“Mosquitoes carry multiple and potentially dangerous illnesses, and people in rain-affected areas are particularly vulnerable right now given these conditions are ripe for mosquito activity,” Ms D’Ath said.
She said Ross River virus, Barmah Forest virus and malaria were common mosquito-borne illnesses.
She said JEV was spread through the bite of an infected mosquito to people and animals, mostly pigs and horses.
Ms D’Ath said that while most human infections of JEV caused no symptoms or mild symptoms such as headache or fever, children aged under five and older people were at a higher risk of developing more severe illness.
“A person with severe disease may present with inflammation of the brain (encephalitis), characterised by sudden onset of vomiting, high fever and chills, severe headache, sensitivity to light, neck stiffness and nausea/vomiting,” she said.
Chief Health Officer, Dr John Gerrard advised people to take simple but effective steps to minimise the risk of mosquito bites.
“Applying insect repellent, wearing loose clothes to cover arms and legs and wearing closed-in shoes can significantly increase protection against mosquito bites,” Dr Gerrard said.
Queensland Health information about mosquito-borne diseases can be accessed at this PS News link.
