Tag: Queensland Health

Parents Urged to Stay Alert Over Japanese Encephalitis Risk in Hemmant

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Health authorities have identified Hemmant as one of several Queensland locations at increased risk of the Japanese encephalitis virus due to recent flooding.

Read: Japanese Encephalitis Virus Detected in Hemmant, Brisbane Triggers Health Alert

Increased Virus Threat Ahead of School Holidays

Queensland Health has issued a public warning as the school holidays begin. They urge 

Japanese encephalitis Hemmant
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parents to remain vigilant over mosquito-borne illnesses, particularly Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV). Hemmant has been identified as a key location where the virus has been detected in mosquito samples.

Mosquito surveillance and testing have intensified across the state. The virus has also been confirmed in humans, including a Brisbane man who died in hospital last month, making it Queensland’s second JEV-related death this year.

Floodwaters Create Breeding Grounds

Heavy rainfall and flooding across Queensland have led to extensive stagnant water. Stagnant water is ideal for mosquito breeding. Experts warn that increased mosquito activity increases the likelihood of virus transmission.

stagnant water
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How the Virus Spreads and Who’s at Risk

JEV is spread by mosquitoes that have fed on infected pigs or waterbirds. It does not transmit between people or through eating pork but can cause serious illness. Symptoms may include fever, vomiting and headaches. In some cases, brain inflammation may occur.

Parents planning outdoor activities or camping with their children over the holidays should take precautions. DEET or Picaridin repellents, protective clothing, and mosquito-proof sleeping arrangements are highly recommended. Queensland Health has tested over 1,500 mosquito traps since July as part of its surveillance program.

Free Vaccine Access for Hemmant Residents

Free vaccinations are now available for eligible individuals living in, working in, or planning to visit the suburb. Vaccines are accessible at more than 100 providers across Queensland, including certain GPs, pharmacies, and community clinics. Although the vaccine is free, some clinics may charge a consultation fee.

Ongoing Precautions and Monitoring

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Japanese encephalitis is less common than other mosquito-borne viruses, but its impact can be severe. With more families spending time outdoors during the break, health officials are urging heightened awareness and preventive action.

Published 10-Apr-2025

Japanese Encephalitis Virus Detected in Hemmant, Brisbane Triggers Health Alert

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Health authorities issued warnings and increased surveillance after the potentially deadly Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) was detected in mosquitoes in Hemmant.

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Health Authorities Confirm First JEV Detection in Brisbane

Queensland Health has confirmed that routine mosquito surveillance programs detected the presence of JEV in Hemmant. The discovery has raised concerns about the spread of the virus, particularly following the recent wet conditions brought by ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred.

infected pigs
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JEV virus spreads through mosquito bites. The virus is transmitted to mosquitoes after they feed on infected pigs or wading birds. Once infected, mosquitoes can pass the virus to humans through a bite.

Chief Health Officer Dr Heidi Carroll has urged residents to take precautions against mosquito bites. She discussed that most JEV-infected individuals experience mild or no symptoms. However, severe cases can result in fever, headaches, vomiting, and, in rare instances, life-threatening neurological complications.

Increased Risk Following Recent Flooding

The detection of JEV in Hemmant follows concerns that Queensland’s recent flooding has created the mosquitoes’ ideal breeding conditions. Dr Carroll emphasised that pooled water from the floods has contributed to rising mosquito populations. Residents are urged to eliminate standing water around their homes.

JEV has previously been detected in the Goondiwindi and North Burnett regions. The recent positive mosquito samples were also recorded in the Darling Downs and Wide Bay areas.

Preventative Measures and Vaccination Efforts

Queensland Health is ramping up efforts to connect impacted residents with JEV vaccinations. City official David Crisafulli assured there is no immediate cause for alarm. He also confirmed that they are working with health authorities to determine vaccine eligibility for at-risk groups.

The JEV vaccine is available at over 100 vaccination providers across Queensland, including selected general practitioners, pharmacies, and community immunisation centres. It is free for eligible Queenslanders; however, some providers may charge a consultation fee.

Japanese Encephalitis Virus
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At-risk individuals are encouraged to vaccinate. These include piggery workers, veterinarians, and transport workers handling pigs. Prevention remains the best defence. Residents are advised to use mosquito repellents with DEET or picaridin. Wearing protective clothing and using insecticide vaporisers or coils outdoors is highly recommended.

What Happens Next?

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JEV vaccination announcement for Brisbane residents should come soon from Dr Carroll. In the meantime, health officials continue to monitor mosquito populations. They will also conduct further surveillance to assess the extent of the virus’s spread. For more information on JEV and vaccine eligibility, visit the Queensland Health website.

Published 17-Mar-2025