IT is believed a middle-aged man has contracted the mosquito-borne disease, Japanese encephalitis, while in the Goondiwindi region during the Christmas period.
Queensland Health confirmed the infection, saying the man was being treated at Townsville University Hospital.
The man is reportedly in a stable condition.
Preliminary investigations by the Queensland State Government suggest the man was likely bitten by an infected mosquito during a visit to Yelarbon, about 50km east of Goondiwindi. It is the first confirmed human case of Japanese encephalitis in Queensland since 2022.
Goondiwindi Regional Council has released a statement about the infection, which was potentially contracted from the border-town region.
“We are working with the Queensland Government Department of Primary Industries and Queensland Health to ascertain more details,” a council media statement said.
“At this stage, we advise people to remain diligent in protecting themselves against mosquito bites, as we would typically do during mosquito breeding season.”
Japanese encephalitis vaccine is available through local General Practitioners, Aboriginal health services and pharmacists.
Information on eligibility for a free JE vaccine is available at NSW Health website.
For further information on the virus and methods of protection go to Mosquito Borne Diseases
NSW Health says most people who contract Japanese encephalitis do not have any symptoms.
They can appear five to 15 days after getting bitten by infected mosquitoes.
Some people may get symptoms such as fever, headache or vomiting.
People with a severe infection – one in every 250 people – may get symptoms such as neck stiffness, disorientation, tremors, coma, seizures or paralysis.
If symptoms appear, contact a doctor immediately, or Healthdirect on 1800 022 222.
In an emergency call Triple Zero (000) or visit the nearest emergency department.
