Japanese encephalitis (JE) virus has been detected in a Goulburn Valley pig herd. Agriculture Victoria’s deputy chief veterinary officer Sally Salmon stressed that the detection, which is the first in a pig since April 2022, is not unexpected.
“We are actively monitoring the situation and continue to investigate and test pigs and other livestock that exhibit clinical signs consistent with JE virus infection,” she said.
“You can help your pigs avoid infection by reducing nearby mosquito habitats and limiting their exposure to mosquitoes.”
JE virus is considered established in mainland Australia and therefore there will be no quarantine or movement restrictions put in place. The Department of Health confirmed a human case of JE in a resident of northern Victoria in January. There is no specific treatment available for Japanese encephalitis. The best prevention is to protect against mosquito bites.
