The Department of Health confirmed a detection of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) in the Horsham Rural City Council area and is reminding Victorians to understand the risks of mosquito-borne diseases when spending time outside over the warmer summer months.
The virus was found in a mosquito trap as part of Victoria's Arbovirus Disease Control Program and marks the first time JEV has been detected in Australia in the 2025/26 summer season.
The Department is working closely with Horsham Rural City Council to treat mosquito breeding sites and reduce the risk to the community.
Japanese encephalitis is a rare but potentially serious disease caused by a virus transmitted through mosquito bites. Most people infected have no symptoms or only mild illness, but in rare cases (around 1 in 250) it can cause severe brain infection (encephalitis), which can be fatal.
A vaccine is available to protect against Japanese encephalitis. In Victoria, Japanese encephalitis vaccine is free-of-charge for eligible individuals, including those not eligible for Medicare, however supply of the vaccine continues to be limited in Australia. Council's Immunisation team has been providing Japanese encephalitis vaccinations upon request since 2023. People can make a booking to receive the vaccine via the online booking system, which you can find here.
Your other best protection is to avoid mosquito bites as much as possible.
Cover up. Wear long, loose, light-coloured clothing. Mosquitoes can bite through tight clothing.
Use mosquito repellents containing active ingredients like DEET or Picaridin. Apply evenly to all exposed skin and clothing.
Limit outdoor activity if lots of mosquitoes are about.
Remove stagnant water where mosquitoes can breed around your home or campsite.
On holidays, make sure your accommodation is fitted with mosquito netting or screens.
Use 'knockdown' fly spray, mosquito coils or plug-in repellent where you gather to sit or eat outdoors.
Don't forget the kids – always check the insect repellent label. On babies, you might need to spray or rub repellent on their clothes instead of their skin. Also avoid applying repellent to the hands of babies and young children.
You can find out more about protecting yourself from mosquito borne diseases on the
Better Health website.