A second death has been sadly attributed to the deadly Japanese Encephalitis, following earlier reports of cases in regional New South Wales, Victoria, Queensland, and now Brisbane.

Japanese Encephalitis, related to both Dengue and Yellow fever, is a rare yet deadly viral infection affecting the brain, transmitted through mosquito bites. The virus is transmitted when a mosquito bites an infected animal, primarily waterbirds and pigs and subsequently bites a human.

Individuals residing in riverine and agricultural regions, particularly in warmer climates prone to flooding, face a heightened risk of contracting the virus. The presence of stagnant water combined with warmer temperatures creates optimal breeding conditions for mosquitoes. Residents in these areas should take care to protect themselves against mosquito bites.

Image: Image: Shutterstock frank60

Produced By: Maeve Groom

Featured In Story: Dr Prasad Paradkar – Principal Research Scientist CSIRO

First aired on The Wire, Wednesday 19 March 2025