CANBERRA – The Australian government has declared an outbreak of Japanese encephalitis virus as nationally significant after cases were detected in four states.
Sonya Bennett, the acting Chief Medical Officer, on Friday declared JEV a Communicable Disease Incident of National Significance.
JEV is a viral illness that is spread to humans, pigs and horses by mosquito bites.
The move to declare Japanese encephalitis virus nationally significant will trigger public messaging and extra resources for affected regions
Most humans infected with the virus will experience no or mild symptoms but it can cause severe disease and death.
The move to declare it nationally significant will trigger public messaging and extra resources for affected regions.
Bennett said the government has established mosquito surveillance and control measures in response to the outbreak.
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"I have declared the JEV situation a Communicable Disease Incident of National Significance after determining a national approach is required in relation to coordination of health policy, interventions and public messaging," she said in a statement.
"The Australian government's health and agriculture departments are working very closely with their state government counterparts to ensure a swift and coordinated response."
Mark Schipp, Australia's Chief Veterinary Officer, said JEV has been confirmed at 14 pig farms across South Australia, New South Wales, Victoria and Queensland.
"The key signs to look out for in pigs are stillborn or weak piglets, some with an impaired nervous system. Piglets can develop encephalitis or wasting, depression or hindlimb paralysis. Adult sows do not typically show signs of disease," he said.
"People working with pigs, even if they're only a backyard pet or a small herd, should take steps to control mosquitoes, as well as continuing to practice good biosecurity."