SA Health has issued a warning for people working or living in the Murray River, Lakes, and the Coorong communities, urging them to protect against mosquitos carrying dangerous viruses.
According to SA Health the insects had been found carrying Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) with the disease transmission at its highest level in more than 10 years.
It recommended people consider being vaccinated against JEV in preparation for a rise in mosquito numbers.
“Current and future predicted weather conditions will result in greater mosquito breeding, which in turn increases the risk of outbreaks of mosquito-borne disease such as JEV, Ross River virus (RRV) and Murray Valley Encephalitis virus (MVEV),” the Agency said.
“Of particular concern is the current outbreak of JEV, which has seen nine human cases of JEV acquired in South Australia since December 2021, resulting in all cases being hospitalised and, sadly, two deaths.”
Chief Public Health Officer at SA Health, Professor Nicola Spurrier encouraged the community to be vigilant protecting against mosquito bites and to remember that vaccination against JEV does not protect against other mosquito borne diseases.
“As South Australia enters its third consecutive La Nina weather season, we know this means there is likely to be more summer rainfall,” Professor Spurrier said.
“This, coupled with flooding associated with increased water levels in the River Murray, will create greater mosquito breeding habitat and conditions that support the transmission of mosquito-borne diseases,” she said.
“With greater access to the JEV vaccine now available, anyone eligible in these areas should come forward and receive a vaccine against JEV to protect themselves against this potentially devastating disease.”
SA Health said the JEV vaccine was free for people aged two months and older, who had a primary residence or work in one of the eligible postcodes.
“Those who live in the region must spend at least four hours per day outdoors most days, while those working in the region must spend those four outdoor hours as part of their occupation,” it said.
“While most people infected with JEV will not experience symptoms, a small proportion will develop encephalitis (inflammation of the brain), which can be fatal or cause long-term neurological damage.”
More information about the JEV vaccine and eligibility for the free vaccine can be accessed at this PS News link.
