By GB News (World News) | Created at 2025-03-31 09:36:14 | Updated at 2025-04-02 00:43:34
1 day ago
British travellers planning trips to Australia have been alerted to health dangers as encephalitis cases rise across the country.
The Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office (FCDO) advised holidaymakers to consult TravelHealthPro, which has provided key information on two recent "outbreaks".
A second "fatal" case of Japanese encephalitis has been reported in New South Wales, while three cases of Murray Valley encephalitis have emerged in Western Australia.
The New South Wales (NSW) Government reported a second deadly case of Japanese encephalitis on March 14, 2025.
A second fatal case of Japanese encephalitis has been reported in New South Wales
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This marks the fourth death from the virus since it was first detected in NSW in 2022. Five non-fatal cases have been reported in NSW in 2025.
The virus, described as a "viral infection of the brain transmitted to humans by mosquitoes in parts of Asia and the Western Pacific", has also been reported in Victoria and Queensland.
Between January 1 and March 21, 2025, three cases of Murray Valley encephalitis were also reported in northern Western Australia.
Two cases were reported in the Pilbara region and one case in the Kimberley region.
The best way to prevent Japanese encephalitis and Murray Valley encephalitis is to avoid mosquito bites.
There is currently no vaccine or treatment available for Murray Valley encephalitis, although a Japanese encephalitis vaccine is recommended for individuals at increased risk of exposure during travel.
Longer stays or stays with "significant rural, outdoor or nighttime exposure" pose a greater risk.
The World Health Organisation assured Britons that the risk to travellers in Japanese encephalitis-endemic areas is "normally low".
However, personal preventive measures, including the use of mosquito repellents, long-sleeved clothes, coils and vaporisers, are advised.
The experts stated: "Vaccination should be considered where there is a suitable environment for JE virus transmission."
British tourists have been told to avoid mosquito bites
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Australia is an expansive holiday paradise known for its immense natural beauty, incredible weather, wildlife - think wombats, koalas and kangaroos - and wine regions.
But before visiting the popular tourist destination, it's important to be aware of the latest health concerns, plus the most up-to-date information on warnings and insurance, entry requirements, safety and security, health and getting help.
In a recent travel warning to holidaymakers, Britons were told a specific group could be imprisoned in the Caribbean.
