Public Health Updates
Department of Health Alerts
Japanese Encephalitis in Victoria this summer
Date issued: 21 Jan 2025 – Update from 31 December 2024
Key messages
- A confirmed human case of Japanese encephalitis (JE) has been identified in a resident of northern Victoria, the first case of JE in Victoria this mosquito season.
- JE virus has also been detected through environmental surveillance in northern Victoria along the Murray River, and in mosquitoes and feral pigs in New South Wales this summer.
- These findings indicate that JE virus is likely circulating in northern Victoria this summer.
- JE virus can cause a rare but potentially serious infection of the brain and is spread to humans through bites from infected mosquitoes.
- Residents and people visiting northern Victoria, particularly inland riverine regions and near the Murray River, are potentially at higher risk of infection and should take measures to prevent mosquito bites.
- Avoid mosquito bites by using mosquito repellent containing picaridin or diethyltoluamide (DEET) on all exposed skin. Wear long, loose fitting clothing when outside, and ensure accommodation, including tents are properly fitted with mosquito nettings or screens.
- In Victoria, JE vaccine is available free-of-charge for specific groups at higher risk of exposure to the virus, including eligible people in 24 high-risk LGAs in northern Victoria.
- Clinicians should test for JE virus in patients with compatible illness and notify the Department of Health immediately of suspected cases by calling 1300 651 160 (24 hours).
Mpox is spreading across Victoria
Date issued: 18 October 2024
Key messages
- Cases of mpox continue to increase in Victoria and other Australian jurisdictions. This outbreak is now the biggest in Victoria since the first case was reported in May 2022.
- Mpox has mostly impacted gay, bisexual, and other men who have sex with men (GBMSM), although anyone can be affected. There have now been several cases in females in Victoria and heterosexual transmission has been reported.
- All sexually active people with compatible symptoms should be tested, regardless of sexual orientation, vaccination status or travel history.
- Remain aware of the possibility of mpox infection amongst other groups.
- Mpox testing can be done in any primary care service (general practitioner) or sexual health clinic.
- Vaccination should be promoted to all eligible people at risk of mpox, including second doses.
- Free mpox vaccine is widely available for eligible people through sexual health clinics, hospitals, general practitioners, Aboriginal health services, councils and pharmacies.
- People at risk of mpox should be aware of the current outbreak and take measures to protect themselves and others.