As a result of the recent severe weather in many parts of NSW, some mosquito-borne illnesses have begun to appear in areas of the state. There has been advice recently about cases of Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV) in commercial piggeries in locations in NSW. NSW Health has advised:

• local infection risks are likely highest among people working at and/or living close to piggeries which have tested positive for JEV and people who engage in outdoor activities (e.g., camping, fishing, hiking) near significant mosquito populations, particularly near waterways
• the mosquitoes that transmit JEV are most active at dawn and dusk and into the evening.

Schools and their communities should be aware of mosquito bite preventative measures they can take to prevent JEV and other mosquito-borne diseases:

• Cover-up with a loose-fitting long-sleeved shirt and long pants when outside.
• Apply mosquito repellent to exposed skin.
• Take special care during peak mosquito biting hours, especially around dawn and dusk.
• Remove potential mosquito breeding sites from around the home and screen windows and doors.
• Take extra precautions when travelling or camping in areas with a higher risk of mosquito-borne diseases.

For more information refer to NSW Health’s fact sheets Mosquitoes are a health hazard fact sheet and Japanese encephalitis fact sheet as linked below.