18/03/2026
🦟 What it is
Japanese encephalitis is a rare but serious viral infection spread to humans through infected mosquito bites. It cannot spread from person to person.
🤒 Symptoms
Most people have no symptoms.
Mild symptoms (5–15 days after a bite):
Fever, headache, vomiting
Severe cases (about 1 in 250 people):
Neck stiffness, confusion, tremors
Seizures, paralysis, coma
Severe illness can lead to long-term brain damage or death.
🔄 How it spreads
Mosquitoes become infected after biting animals (especially pigs or waterbirds)
Infected mosquitoes then bite humans
Not spread by touching animals or eating animal products
⚠️ Who is at higher risk
People spending time outdoors (camping, fishing, hiking, gardening) in risk areas
People living or working near piggeries
🧪 Diagnosis & Treatment
Diagnosed through blood or spinal fluid tests
No specific cure — treatment is supportive (often hospital care)
🛡️ Prevention
Avoid mosquito bites:
Wear long, light-coloured clothing
Use repellents (DEET, picaridin, or oil of lemon eucalyptus)
Remove standing water
Use screens, nets, and protective housing
Take extra care during peak mosquito times
When travelling:
Stay in screened/air-conditioned rooms
Use insecticide-treated bed nets
Avoid high-risk areas
💉 Vaccination
Safe and effective vaccine available for people 2 months and older
Recommended for those at higher risk or travelling to affected areas
Speak to a doctor or pharmacist to see if you’re eligible (some may qualify for a free vaccine)
🚨 When to seek help
If you develop symptoms after mosquito bites, seek medical care immediately
Call healthdirect (1800 022 222) or emergency services (000) if severe
Please see link for area at risk
Vaccination is recommended for those at highest risk. Once fully vaccinated, it can take between 2 to 4 weeks for your body to develop a protective immune response to the disease, so if you’re eligible, you should get vaccinated as soon as possible.
