13/01/2026
Communities across southern parts of NSW are being urged to protect themselves against mosquito bites following a probable case of Japanese encephalitis (JE), as well as detection of the virus in sentinel chickens.
Communities across southern parts of NSW are being urged to protect themselves against mosquito bites following a probable case of Japanese encephalitis (JE), as well as detection of the virus in sentinel chickens.
JE is a rare but serious illness spread by infected mosquitoes which in some cases can cause severe neurological illness with headache, confusion, convulsions and reduced consciousness. A probable case of JE is being investigated in a man in his 60s, who was likely exposed to JE virus in the Riverina region in late December of last year.
NSW Health can also advise of a recent detection of JE virus in the Upper Lachlan Shire near Goulburn through a sentinel chicken blood sample in early January 2026, which indicates that JE virus is likely circulating in the area. NSW Health uses routine sentinel chicken surveillance to provide early warnings about the presence of mosquito-borne viruses.
Director Public Health for Murrumbidgee and Southern NSW Local Health Districts Alison Nikitas said given the widespread area of these detections, anyone living or working in areas at high-risk for JE should take steps to protect themselves by avoiding mosquito bites and getting vaccinated.
“There is no specific treatment for JE so it is very important for people who live in or travel to these areas to be aware of the elevated risk,” Ms Nikitas said. “Importantly, there is a safe, effective vaccine to protect against JE virus which is free to anyone who lives or routinely works in various inland regions as well as for people who work in some other high-risk occupations.”
People who meet the eligibility criteria for vaccination should make an appointment with their GP, Aboriginal Medical Service or pharmacy and let the provider know it is for the JE vaccine. These providers may require a few days’ notice so they can place an order for the vaccine.
A booster dose may be recommended for some people. People who have been vaccinated more than a year ago should discuss whether they need a booster with a healthcare provider.
Information on eligibility for a free JE vaccine is available here: https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/Infectious/jev/Pages/vaccination.aspx
JE virus cannot be transmitted directly between humans or from any other animal.
For further information on JE virus and ways to protect yourself from mosquitoes, visit https://www.health.nsw.gov.au/mosquitoes
