Potentially deadly mosquito-borne virus found for first time in city

Sunday, 16 March 2025 19:37

Health experts raised the alarm this weekend as wet weather from ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred threatened to push up infection risk.

A potentially deadly mosquito borne virus has been detected in Brisbane for the first time.

Health experts raised the alarm this weekend as wet weather from ex-tropical Cyclone Alfred threatened to push up infection risk.

Japanese encephalitis is now circulating amongst Brisbane mosquitoes.

"It's not something we normally deal with here in south-east Queensland and there has been detection in mosquitoes locally," infectious diseases expert Professor Paul Griffin said.

Queensland Health warned there could be an increased risk to residents right across the region.

Recent wet weather, including from ex-Tropical Cyclone Alfred, is raising concerns the virus could spread as mosquito populations boom.

"It is something that's a bit concerning, given that we now have seen it in SEQ, it means people need to be aware," Griffin said.

The new detection came after Queensland in January recorded its first locally acquired case of the virus since 2022.

Across the border in New South Wales, five cases have been detected in recent months.

The latest is a man in his 20s who travelled to the state's north.

Two men have already died as a result of the virus there this year.

The symptoms to watch out for include fever, headache. nausea, neck stiffness and disorientation, but most cases are mild and some people might not have any symptoms at all.

Griffin said the best way to protect yourself is to wear long sleeves, long pants, use repellent and stay inside at dawn and dusk.

Vaccines are also available for free across the country, for those at higher risk due to their job or where they live.