2nd December, 2025
Japanese Encephalitis Detected in Rural Victoria: What It Means and How to Stay Protected This Mosquito Season
Health authorities have confirmed the detection of Japanese Encephalitis (JE) in a mosquito trap in the Horsham region of rural Victoria. This is the first detection of the 2025–2026 season, and it has raised concerns for communities across regional and northern Victoria as mosquito numbers begin to increase.
While the risk of severe illness is very low, this detection highlights the broader issue of mosquito encephalitis in Australia and reminds residents to stay vigilant about mosquito protection, especially around homes, farms and outdoor areas where mosquito breeding is common.
What Is Japanese Encephalitis and How Does It Spread?
Japanese Encephalitis is a mosquito-borne viral infection. It does not spread from person to person. Only mosquitoes transmit the virus. In most cases, people who contract JE experience either no symptoms or only mild illness.
However, in rare cases, about 1 in 250, the infection can cause inflammation of the brain known as encephalitis. This may lead to serious health complications or, in some cases, can be fatal. This makes JE one of the more serious forms of Australian encephalitis, even though the overall risk remains low.
For detailed information reviewed by government health experts, refer to:
These sources provide trusted guidance about symptoms, prevention and vaccination eligibility.
Why This Detection Matters
Mosquito-borne illnesses naturally increase during warmer months. Heavy rains, high humidity and standing water all create ideal breeding environments. With JE detected again in Victoria, residents in northern and rural regions should take extra steps to reduce exposure to mosquitoes.
This alert is not just about JE. It also highlights the group of mosquito-borne encephalitis viruses found in Australia, including:
- Murray Valley Encephalitis (MVE)
- Murray Valley Encephalitis virus, which is also monitored every season
- Murray River Encephalitis
- Other emerging “new mosquito virus” strains that appear seasonally
Although these viruses remain rare, proactive mosquito prevention goes a long way in reducing risk.
Common Symptoms to Watch For
Most people infected never feel sick. But when symptoms do appear, they can include:
- High fever
- Chills
- Severe headaches
- Sensitivity to light
- Vomiting
- Neck stiffness
- Confusion
- Sudden neurological symptoms
If anyone develops severe symptoms, especially after recent mosquito exposure, they should seek immediate medical care.
How to Protect Yourself and Your Family
Health authorities are urging Victorians in high-risk areas to take simple protective steps:
1. Use mosquito repellent daily
Choose repellents containing DEET, picaridin or oil of lemon eucalyptus.
2. Wear protective clothing outdoors
Long sleeves and long pants help reduce bites, especially during dawn and dusk.
3. Remove stagnant water around your home
Check for:
- Buckets
- Bird baths
- Plant trays
- Blocked gutters
- Containers that collect rainwater
Even small amounts of stagnant water can become mosquito breeding sites.
4. Install or repair window and door screens
Screens help prevent mosquitoes from entering your home.
5. Stay informed
Follow updates from the Victorian Department of Health during mosquito season for new alerts or vaccination recommendations.
How Professional Mosquito Control Helps
Mosquito breeding does not only occur in obvious places. Mosquitoes often thrive in shaded, damp or hidden areas that are easy to miss without professional inspection.
A professional mosquito control service can:
- Identify breeding hotspots
- Safely treat standing water
- Reduce adult mosquito populations
- Provide long-term prevention solutions
- Make outdoor areas safer and more comfortable
- Lower the risk of mosquito-borne diseases
This is especially helpful for rural properties, farms and homes near creeks, rivers or bushland.
Stay Safe This Season. We Are Here to Help
With Japanese Encephalitis detected again in Victoria, this is a good time to ensure your home and surroundings are protected. Whether you are in Horsham, Melbourne or regional Victoria, early action can help keep your family safe throughout mosquito season.
If you need mosquito control or an inspection, you can request a free quote from Mr Pest Controller.
Our licensed technicians can assess your property and recommend the most effective and safe mosquito protection plan.
Stay safe, stay protected and let us help you enjoy a mosquito-free summer.
