Holiday makers and residents in the state's north are being reminded to remain vigilant against mosquitoes, following recent detections of the Japanese encephalitis virus.
Victoria's early warning mosquito surveillance program has identified the virus in two mosquito traps in Moira Shire - the first mosquito-borne disease detections this season.
It follows similar recent detections in New South Wales and a confirmed human case of Japanese encephalitis identified in Victoria in December.
Victoria's Chief Health Officer, Tarun Weeramanthri, said the findings confirmed the virus was circulating in northern Victoria.
"Japanese encephalitis virus can cause a rare but potentially serious infection of the brain and is spread to humans through bites from infected mosquitoes," Dr Weeramanthri said.
"If you're visiting northern Victoria, particularly inland riverine regions and near the Murray River, you're potentially at higher risk of infection.
"It's important to take steps to prevent mosquito bites so cover up, use repellent and limit your time outdoors when mosquitoes are about."
The Japanese encephalitis virus vaccine is free for eligible people in 24 high-risk local government areas in northern Victoria.
If camping or caravaning in high-risk areas of northern Victoria:
- ensure mosquito screens are intact
- close doors and tent flaps to stop mosquitoes getting inside
- use a mosquito net if mosquito screens are not available
- try to avoid camping near wetland habitats where mosquitoes are likely breeding
There is no specific treatment available for Japanese encephalitis. The best prevention is to protect against mosquito bites. For people who develop Japanese encephalitis, treatment aims to reduce the severity of the symptoms and may include medication and admission to hospital.
