Japanese encephalitis is a rare but serious illness caused by the Japanese encephalitis virus (JEV). It is spread to humans by infected mosquitoes.
Read the JEV factsheet
JEV vaccination information
A JEV vaccine is available for free for people who are at higher risk of catching the virus. This includes people aged 2 months or older who live or work in areas of high JEV concern. Find out if you're eligible for a free JEV vaccine.
No, only some mosquitoes carry and spread JEV. Culex species of mosquitoes are most likely to carry the virus in NSW. However, because mosquitoes are hard to identify and may also carry other viruses it is important to avoid any mosquito bites. Learn more about mosquito-borne diseases and how to protect yourself from mosquito bites.
Before the 2021-2022 mosquito season, JEV had rarely been found in Australia with previous cases only in Northern Australia, Cape York and the Torres Strait.
It is not known how JEV came into mainland Australia, but the movement of infected mosquitoes or migratory water birds may have played a part in the virus' spread, combined with significant rain events.
Since the arrival of JEV in NSW, it has continued to be detected in mosquitoes, pigs and humans over some of the more recent mosquito seasons, indicating it is likely here to stay.
Japanese encephalitis cannot be caught from touching an infected animal or eating the meat from an infected animal.
However, any infection of JEV in an animal indicates that the mosquitoes in the environment may be carrying JEV and can also bite and infect humans. Take the steps to protect yourself from mosquito bites.
There are some areas of NSW where it is more likely that mosquitoes are carrying JEV. Check if JEV is a risk in your area and take steps to protect yourself and your family.
With the forecast rainfall and warm temperatures, there is an ongoing risk of JEV in NSW for this summer.
Since the first detections of JEV in NSW in 2022, there have been ongoing detections in mosquitoes, animals, and humans during recent summer seasons, indicating JEV is likely here to stay.
All residents and travellers to the 60 LGAs identified as higher risk should presume that the risk may be present in their region and take measures to prevent mosquito bites.
NSW recommends people continue to avoid mosquito bites this summer: spray up (use repellent), cover up (wear long-sleeved shirts and long pants), screen up (cover windows and doors with insect screens) and clean up (remove any containers that hold water where mosquitoes may breed). Further information is available at Mosquito-borne diseases.
Balranald, Berrigan, Carrathool, Dubbo, Federation, Goulburn Mulwaree, Griffith, Hilltops, Gunnedah, Lachlan, Lockhart, Moree Plains, Murray River, Tamworth, Temora, Tenterfield, Wentworth.
Note: Where human cases may have been exposed in multiple LGAs, all LGAs are listed.
