Japanese Encephalitis Virus (JEV) Detected

Published on 03 December 2025

Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) has been detected in mosquito monitoring traps in Horsham.

JEV is a rare but potentially serious infection of the central nervous system.  This virus is transmitted to humans by infected mosquitoes.  Most people who acquire this infection will not experience any symptoms.  Less than one per cent of infected people will develop clinical disease.

The best prevention against JEV is to protect against mosquito bites.  This summer, residents are urged to protect themselves through the following:

• Wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing.
• Use mosquito repellents containing active ingredients like DEET or Picaridin.
• Apply repellents to exposed skin and clothing.
• Limit outdoor activities if lots of mosquitoes are active.
• Remove stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed around your home.
• Protect children by keeping them covered and using child-safe repellents on their clothes instead of their skin.
• Chat to your GP about vaccine eligibility.

For more information relating to JEV and how to protect your family, please visit the Better Health Channel website.